Understanding Common Contract Terms and Conditions
We're all familiar with signing an agreement for services – from cell phone, cable or satellite TV to our home security, alarm monitoring, and internet services. In fact, we're so familiar with the process and, hopefully, common agreement terms, that we often sign up without reading every word. The good news is that the details are often in place to protect you, the consumer, ensuring you receive an agreed upon service and fully understand any limitations related to it.
Service agreements also should outline what a company has agreed to provide, what's expected from you, any conditions that might impact the service, and a clear payment plan. As a consumer, you should never feel forced to sign an agreement before having time to fully review it or ask questions. Fortunately, there are indications when a company might not have your best interest in mind when asking you to commit.
Watch for Warning Signs Before you Sign a Contract
So that there are no surprises, you should read all the terms before signing on the bottom line. It's also good to know the warning signs of someone attempting to scam you into an agreement, for their benefit, such as:
- Pressure to sign that day or immediately
- Unable or unwilling to provide a business card, company address, or business license number
- Stating they are a representative of your current provider but did not have an appointment and is unwilling to let you take time to confirm their statements
- Requesting access inside your home, to your service or equipment, as part of signing a new contract that you didn't request
- Saying that your current provider has gone out of business or has been bought (check with your current provider or visit their website for accurate information.)
- Unwilling or unable to provide referrals or positive ratings from consumer agencies
- Never open the door to someone who doesn't have an appointment.
- If the person claims to be from a company you do business with, call your provider to confirm they have sent a representative.
- Take the time to check details before signing a contract.
- Know the facts about those who provide your home services. Stay up to date on company news via their website and social media activity. Look for information about common scams, suspicious activity, or imposter alerts.
- Report suspicious activity to the local police, sheriff or Better Business Bureau. Or, if someone claiming to represent your security company seems questionable, call your home security provider.
- Start a neighborhood watch group.
- If your home alarm system includes video surveillance, use your security cameras and smartphone to monitor activity, such as people going door to door, looking for easy entry and checking who's home.
- Share these tips with friends, family or neighbors. By knowing what to watch for and being more security aware, you help keep your home more secure and create a safer neighborhood.