Ending Virgin contract

iMacThere4iAm

Here's the siutuation:
Last August, I signed up with Virgin Media broadband and phone. The contract had a 12 month minimum term.
In February, I upgraded the broadband package to a higher speed.
I'm moving out this August, so I phoned them to give my notice that I want the contract cancelled at the end of the 12 months.
I was informed yesterday that when I upgraded the broadband in February, it counted as starting a new 12 month contract, and if I wanted to cancel in August, I'd have 6 months of disconnection charges to pay.

What I want to know is, can they do this? The thing is, I was never informed that upgrading the broadband package would lead to the formation of a whole new contract. If I had been, then I would certainly not have done so, as I always knew I'd be moving out in August this year.
Another point: When I first signed up, I was sent a contract to sign and return to them. I was not sent anything after I upgraded. Does this mean that no new contract exists, or do my telephone calls count as a new verbal agreement?

If I had some more information, I'd feel more confident to dispute their demands.

Cheers! I really can't afford £100-£120 just for the privilege of moving out!

oldagetraveller

I'm sure there will be something in their terms & conditions, which you originally agreed to, that allows them to do this and states what will happen if you change your package. Have you checked?

PaulK_3

Have you tried telling them you are moving to an area not enabled for VM? Sometimes it helps.