Coventry Building Society Charges

[LJL]

Hi all,

 

I always keep my Coventry Building Society basic account in excellent order and in two years have only had 2 charges(2 x £20), both occurred on the same day when two standing orders bounced due to late payment of my wages.

 

I called the building society straight away to query the charges (this was in Nov 2005) and they removed one charge but not the other, at the time I thought 'fair enough'.

 

However I called them today to ask that in view of recent law changes would they be so kind as to refund the other £20, I got the reply that 'as the charges are clearly stated in our T & C's that the charges are not illegal and no refund would be made'

 

Now, this is only £20 so I don't want to kick up a fuss, however better the £20 be in my pocket, rather then theirs!

 

Where do I stand with building society's? Any advice would be great

 

Thanks

[Stillborn Crisps]

The charges are not illegal, but unlawful, which is a big difference. Look around the banking forums for info as lots of people make this mistake.

 

For such a small amount I would try writing to them explaining that:

 

* You think the remaining £20 charge is unfair as it obviously doens't cost them anywhere near to £20 for an automated system to bounce a payment

 

* That you have always kept your account in order and have continued to do so

 

* That you would like the £20 refunded and that although you have a been a loyal customer for X years you will have no option but close your account if they don't want to meet this request

 

A lot customer service centres will waive smaller fees with this tactic.

[LJL]

Hi - thanks for that, good idea!!!! I'll send the letter now!

[LondonPam]

I got all my charges back from Cov. BS and that was on a closed account. They were the easiest to deal with

Good luck.