Auto-renew scam!

Frank99

bxboards wrote: »

I dis-like the word scam in this context, but I do agree with the principle he talks about, I find AXA always wants to auto-renew I've been caught out before as there seems to be no way to opt-out via the web-interface, so you need to e-mail.

Was also caught out by Home Protect in the same manner, they autorenewed me, I got around a 60% saving by phoning up asking for a cancel / refund and going elsewhere.

They clearly rely on customer inertia, but to do this, they need to store the details. It's a bit of a racket as in my view the card details should only be used for the transaction at the time, not retained for another charge the company hopes to make 12 months later.

I agree, i suppose the word scam is a bit harsh really but maybe dishonest or trick might have been a better title, however i was a bit moody because after filling in all my details i was presented with the auto-renew scenario at the end.

bxboards

Frank99 wrote: »

I agree, i suppose the word scam is a bit harsh really but maybe dishonest or trick might have been a better title, however i was a bit moody because after filling in all my details i was presented with the auto-renew scenario at the end.

The problem is you will get people who will argue the hind legs of a donkey here who will focus on your wording, not the very valid point you made.

I don't see anyone saying the forced 'opt-in' is a good idea.

Chickenlips

They normally write to you a few weeks before auto renewal advising that they'll be renewing for X amount.

At that point, I normally search for similar cover and haggle them down a little. The premium then comes out when required.

Given I forgot to renew two important items this year due to a pretty tough year, I'm actually pretty greatful they do this! As someone that sees home insurance claims first hand, I suspect finding the water tank had burst whilst on holiday and then finding you forgot to renew/didn't have cover would be pretty heart breaking (seeing as those claims often exceed £50k).

Also worth noting you normally get 14 days to cancel. So if you forget not to renew or accidentally duel insure, you can cancel within 14 day of getting the confirmation through.

It really isn't the end of the world.