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The new European Union regulation requires telephone companies to provide their customers with an easy-to-understand summary framework
From December 21, 2020, the signing of a telephone contract will be clearer, easier and, above all, more transparent for all European citizens. This is the new regulation of the European Commission that obliges telephone operators to summarize the general terms of the contract before obtaining the customer’s signature.
The new rules apply to both telephone and internet-based and messaging contracts. It will be very easy for businesses to switch to the new way of working: the Commission has not only defined what information will have to be communicated, but has also provided businesses with a standard template that telephone companies will have to fill in and present to their customers before signing the contract. This is an important step towards greater transparency and consumer awareness.
New telephone contract terms: what has the European Commission decided?
The new regulations established by the European Commission and in force since December 21, 2020 speak for themselves. Telephone operators will need to provide a number of contract details before the customer signs the contract. The mandatory information includes the price of the package offered, the services included in it, the duration of the contract, the terms of cancellation and extension of the contract, all amenities for disabled users and the connection speed. The aim is to help consumers understand the contract before signing it and to help them navigate the sea of alternatives available on the market. In fact, thanks to the grids in the template, comparing different offers will be much easier. Currently, each operator presents its services and packages independently, taking into account some data and ignoring others. As a result, it is very difficult to understand the significant differences between phone contracts.
New phone contracts: what will the new contract summary and template look like
The so-called contract summary to be included on one page for each service and up to three pages for packages. It can be delivered in person (if information is required in the store) or sent by e-mail (if contact is made by phone or online).
It should of course be sent to both businesses and end consumers. In short, the supplier will be required to send the summary electronically before the contract is fully signed, unless the end customer expressly waives his right to receive it and therefore wishes to sign the contract immediately. But this communication must be in writing, reasoned and signed.
Why do we always require a summary before concluding a contract?
The summary that the supplier sends before the final signing of the contract is an additional security for the end customer. It does not imply any obligation to sign a contract. The information in the template gives you a clear and immediate idea of the terms of the contract. Moreover, it is possible to receive several templates to judge which one should be signed. The process is similar to requesting multiple quotes before purchasing any other good or service.
Only after positive feedback from the potential customer, can the supplier send the actual contract and get it signed.
The rules are designed to increase consumer protection and awareness, as well as protect users who purchase messaging services such as Skype and WhatsApp. Finally, users will be able to compare all available offers in detail before making an informed choice.
