renting handset from BT - how do we ditch it?

jackiep_2

Hi. We are trying to sort out FIL's money problems and one of the things he is still doing is renting a handset from BT (not sure how long this has gone on!). Therefore I am trying to ditch it for him - but don't have any paperwork from him and can't find any mention on BT website. Apart from writing a letter to them (which I will do) any one got any quick advice on what I might need to know/put in the letter?

Thanks!


Jackie

sergeant121

So that the male who phones as your FIL can quote their (his) Customer Number when he calls, they'll need to have his latest BT bill in front of them when they (as him) telephone.

I assume the phone in question is not one of the really old-fashioned hard-wired type. If it is, the line needs to be converted to sockets so the rental phone can be replaced with one bought from a shop.

If it's a plug-in phone, you should find an item on the bill for equipment rental - then ring 150 to cancel that and, I believe, BT will send you a reply paid bag to return the instrument in (they'll throw it away but they're pedantic like that).

andy88_2

... then you can buy a replacement for a few pounds from loads of places

joa

Silly question ... what is FIL?

He's right about calling 150 BTW, my top tip to you is DON'T PRESS ANY BUTTONS. It should take you through to a real person a little faster after first asking you 3 times to input your number.

Good luck.

sergeant121

joa wrote:

Silly question ... what is FIL?

There are no silly questions on MSE. If you don't know, ask - someone else will.

In this case it's FATHER-IN-LAW (but there are many other possible meanings - see HERE).

tweeter

Hi,
You will still need a non cordless phone for giving out secure details to anyone.
cheers tweeter

joa

Why would they need a non cordless phone?

In case you meant people could eavesdrop your conversation ... cordless phones (digital ones) now come with DECT technology which stops any of the old overhearing problems that people used to get.

Hope that's what you meant and if you did, no need to worry anymore if you have a digital DECT phone. If they have an old analogue cordless, then perhaps it's time to upgrade !!

Thanks for the lowdown on the initials too Sarge !! Now I know.

tweeter

Hi joa,
My bank always askes if I have a secure phone and I said I've got a Bt 4010 Diverse and one with a cord, and they say use the one with the cord.Are they correct with this information.
tweeter

joa

Personally I would say no, they are being over cautious.
The phone you have does have DECT technology so no worries for you.

Phone them on your cordless, it's fine.