CHOOSING FIXED LINE TELEPHONE SERVICES
New technology
that makes it easier to communicate is being developed so quickly that sometimes
it is hard to keep up with the jargon and the offers, as well as deciding which
products and services deliver what you actually need and want.
With so many companies offering similar services, you as a consumer can benefit
as they compete for your business. But sometimes, this strong competition between
service providers desperate to sign you up can also result in unfair selling
practices. In fact there are some practices used by telecommunications companies
to get your business that are legally prohibited. Be aware – don’t
get sucked into signing deals which may leave you out of pocket and locked
into contracts and plans that don’t live up to the hype and promises.
Telecommunication service providers are required by law to give accurate information
about their products. They have a responsibility to be honest and to fully
disclose relevant information to you before and after you agree to a deal.
Your rights as a consumer include being protected from unreasonable and unjust
selling practices used by salespeople who may try to take advantage of you.
Beware of signing documents – it may be that what you are being asked
to sign is actually a contract or agreement which is legally binding. Don’t
agree to anything unless you are sure that you understand it and are happy
that the service you are being offered is the service you want.
The best way to avoid problems is to take the time to consider the services
you need and what you want the product to do for you. Don’t feel afraid
to ask questions and make sure you understand the promises being given by the
seller. Remember, a deal that seems too good to be true usually is. A genuinely
good deal available for ‘today only’ is almost always still available
later. So don’t be rushed into making a decision – you don’t
want to make the wrong choice and regret that you can’t change it.
DOOR-TO-DOOR AND OVER THE PHONE SALES
When approached by door-to-door sales people or telemarketers for the sale of
fixed line phone services, be careful not to have your service transferred
without your knowledge or consent. For more information go to
www.fairtel.org.au/slamming.asp.
CHOOSING A PLAN
Generally, there are three main types of plans
to choose from when selecting mobile, internet or telephone services. There
are:
THE TRADITIONAL WAY
- you receive a bill which outlines your usage, the charges and
gives you a date to pay. To protect your credit rating, make sure you pay the
correct amount when due.
CAPPED PLANS
- available for both mobile phones and fixed line (home phone) services – you
agree to pay a certain amount each month for a minimum number of calls. Capped
plans are often promoted as a way of budgeting to cover your telephone bills – because
you know what you will be charged in advance. Be careful to check the contract
carefully for hidden charges for services which are not included in the capped
amount.
PRE-PAID
- you purchase credits to make calls in advance. The promise of
free calls is a great way to lure customers in, but there are always hidden
terms and conditions you need to be aware of to maximise any benefits. For example – are
you charged at a higher rate if you hit your limit?
USEFUL LINKS
