web hosting renewal

droow

I am a web designer and recently was asked to redesign a website for a client.

she had been with her current hosting company for 10 years.

I took a look at the hosting package she had to see if it was suitable for what we were planning (mysql etc) and found that it was completely out of date. I had very few facilities (no mysql) and a tiny amount of online hosting space.

On further inspection it became apparent that she had taken out their 'gold' hosting package 10 years ago and they had just been renewing it every year at a cost of £120!!!. Despite their website now offering a years hosting with 10x the storage space and tons more functionality for around £30 a year!!!

So, I rang the hosting company and asked why they hadn't switched her to more up to date package. They said they could only do that if asked and on renewal. a bit mean, but fair enough I suppose.

So then I found out that the client had just renewed an hour beforehand! and now, to change over to the new CHEAPER hosting package, she'd have to pay £36, and would not be refunded the £120

Anyone know what rights if any are applicable here?

Sorry to ramble on.

fluffnutter

There aren't any specific rights that apply, other than good will. The company's under no obligation to apprise her of better deals although, in the interests of good customer relations, it makes sense to.

The only thing your client can do is appeal to their sense of good will and point out that, if they swap her to the cheaper package, then she may well continue doing business with them for many years whereas if they leave her on the current one this will inevitably be the last year she remains with them.

droow

I said that, they weren't the least bit bothered Ah well. Live and learn!

Mark_Hewitt

Number 1 money saving rule, shop around