Cold Callers Offering Insurance Cover for Satellite TV Systems

Last year the Office of Fair Trading received a number of complaints from consumers concerned by ‘phone calls they had received from cold callers offering insurance cover for satellite TV systems. The Office issued advice to consumers at that time but it appears that consumers are once again being contacted by a company attempting to sell them this type of insurance.

The callers suggest that consumers need to take out further insurance cover as the cover they previously had has run out.

The Office is reiterating its previous advice to consumers on the calls during which they may be asked to provide financial details:-

• If you are concerned about the call tell the caller that you do not wish to be contacted in this way and put the ‘phone down. If you do wish to continue with the call advise the caller that you do not wish to make an immediate decision. Ask them to send you the details by post so you can consider them at your leisure. Tell them you will contact them should you decide to take up their offer.
• Check any existing satellite insurance policy you may have. Has the insurance cover run out?
• Check with your insurers and find out if you are covered under your home insurance policy.
• Do you really need the insurance cover? Do you know the likely cost of repairing or replacing your system? Check with local installers/repairers to find out what they would charge. You may find that a new system will not cost you much more than the annual insurance premium quoted. Do not provide any financial details until you have taken the above steps and decided to accept the offer - in particular do not give your credit or debit card details as these transactions can be difficult to cancel with your Bank.

Chairman of the Office of Fair Trading Bill Henderson MHK advises "There is no doubt that many consumers feel intimidated by cold callers. That is the way that these businesses work – they pressure you into accepting offers without giving you time to think about it properly. Our advice is that you should never accept offers under such circumstances. If you feel you need this type of insurance shop around and ask for quotations from local service providers. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions offered and exactly what services are to be provided. You may find it very difficult to obtain redress from cold callers should the need arise as they may not based in the Island. If you wish to speak to someone about a call you have received you can speak to one of our consumer advisors on 686500.

Remember you can reduce the number of telesales calls you receive by registering with the Telephone Preference Service at www.tpsonline.org.uk or by calling 0845 0700707.”