Travel Insurance- Columbus

RachelD

Last March I took out a year's travel insurance with Columbus. I never needed to claim.

I didn't want to take out more insurance until just before I was ready to travel this year, and, as it happens, due to impending surgery I won't be travelling much this year anyway. Today I find on my credit card statemnet that Columbus have automatically renewed my yearly travel insurance, taken the money from my card, £42, all without any authorisation from me or any contact from them.

I've emailed and asked for a refund as I consider they are taking liberties.and this is a really bad business practice. Is it legal?

I am spitting fury really. Has anyone ever had this happen to them?

Rachel

dbea23

I was with Columbus last year too.

I got a letter from them about a month in advance saying they would automatically renew my insurance unless I call them in advance. It also said you have 14 days to ring after renewal in case you change your mind.

I think a lot of companies do it now but you should be okay for a refund if you are quick enough. I am not sure were you stand after 14 days though...

Gingham_Ribbon

Under the direct debit guarantee, you are entitled to your money back. If they didn't inform you and you didn't authorise it, you can claim it straight back. If you have any problems with them, contact your bank and ask them to put the money back into your account and they will claim it back on your behalf. (At least, that's what mine did and, as far as I know, that's part of the guarantee.)