MURFREESBORO, TN (WGNS) - If it feels like more people are knocking on your door lately, you’re not imagining things. July is prime season for door‑to‑door sales crews in Murfreesboro and across Rutherford County. Roofing bids, driveway sealing, pressure washing, painting, pest control — you name it, somebody’s out there selling it. And with long daylight hours and more residents at home, the foot traffic ramps up fast.

Murfreesboro Police have two favorite sayings this time of year: “When in doubt, check them out,” and “better safe than sorry.” Both come in handy when a stranger shows up on your porch with a clipboard and a pitch.

Police departments across Middle Tennessee report an uptick in “suspicious person” calls during July. It’s not always because someone is doing something wrong — summer sales quotas, transient seasonal crews, and companies pushing warm‑weather promotions all contribute to the spike. But mixed in with the legitimate salespeople are the ones who raise eyebrows.

Residents are encouraged to ask for a city‑issued solicitor permit, which every legal salesperson must carry. It should match their name and be current. Officers also recommend checking for company identification, such as a badge or branded paperwork, and asking for a clear explanation of why they’re at your address. A legitimate worker should be able to give you a company phone number you can call to verify them — not just a personal cell.

Police say the biggest red flags are the ones that make your stomach tighten: no permit, no ID, excuses about why they don’t have them, or claims that the city “sent them.” Other warning signs include returning multiple days in a row, pressuring you to make a quick decision, trying to come inside your home, or not knowing basic details about the company they supposedly represent. Unmarked vehicles parked far away or workers being dropped off in neighborhoods also tend to generate calls.

And here’s the simplest rule of all: if you tell them “no thanks,” they should leave immediately. If they don’t, Murfreesboro Police want you to call.

July may be the season for door‑to‑door sales, but it doesn’t have to be the season for discomfort. Trust your instincts, ask questions, and remember — better safe than sorry.