I'm currently in the process of changing my phone and b/band supplier away from BT to a new provider. Was surprised to receive a letter today saying early termination charges apply, as I've had this BT contract for many years.

A phone call revealed that because I opted for 'Unlimited evening and weekend calls' and this is on an automatically renewable contract, BT have cleverly locked me into a permanently ongoing contract

So beware, if you're thinking of moving from BT you need to contact them to cancel this option when it's due for renewal, otherwise they hit you with early termination charges. Just another reason why I won't be going back to them.........

[Edited on 23/9/09 by GeoffT]

Oh crap... we've just changed. I'll better check that !!

Thanks

Unless you've signed for it, its completely irrelevant what the call centre person says. I've had this before. Fair enough, I had to involve Ofcom, but they folded when Ofcom got involved, waived 6 months payments and the cancellation charge.

A lot of Phone network providers are using this ploy of rolling contract at the moment. Worth checking the small print in any agreement you enter into, no doubt providers of other services will be joining on the bandwagon.
Not knowing the terms of any agreement you sign into is no defence.
Cheers,
Bob

I changed from bt recently and they tried that with me. I refused to pay it and the never charged me.

.........I've now phoned back and stated that I haven't personally signed any contract renewal, and don't see why I should pay this. It'll be interesting to see what they decide....

Just wait until you get the bill for the soon to be charged 'Broadband tax'

http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/technology/2009/09/will_you_pay_for_a_digital_bri.html

Ask for them to send you a copy of the agreement you signed. No signature no contract