Internet Telecommunications PLC - Penalty Charges

[idbuchanan]

My telephone service (line & calls) is provided by Internet Telecommunications plc (www.itplc.com).

They charge a late fee of £20, and this is clearly printed on their invoices and in their terms and conditions. I've spoken to them, and they agree that this is a penalty charge, and refuse to provide a break down justifying the charge.

I've had several arguments with them regarding the legality, and they simply belittle me, tell me I'm wrong, and that they are fully justified to charge this as it's in the contract I signed, printed clearly on their invoices and has been endorsed by their lawyer.

I've explained that whilst this may be the case, case law shows that penalty charges can only be applied by the courts. I've also explained that the contract was not negotiated with myself and the clause that specifies penalty charges is unfair and contrary to common law.

Short of starting legal proceedings for just the one charge of £20, what can I do to make this company wake up, do a bit of research and find out that their penalty charges are illegal?

[buzby]

Move to a better provider, then raise a Small Claims action for any amounts charged in this way. Why stay with a firm that resorts to illegal methods of boosting their profits?

[meagain]

Originally Posted by buzby

Why stay with a firm that resorts to illegal methods of boosting their profits?

Because there are no telcos that don't fit this description.

[buzby]

You old cynic you!

[davethorp]

Only a £20 late payment charge?? There are other providers who will remain nameless... lets just call them Hg.... who attempt to charge £25+VAT for late payment and an additional £25+VAT if you cancel your direct debit

Either way they are unlawful and if they wont refund them then Buzby's action is clearly the best one to take though not sure who you'll find who doesn't apply any kind of penalty charge