Your rights when using phone services - July 20, 2008

Are you about to sign a contract with a fixed phone line provider? Before signing a service contract always read the terms and conditions - especially the small print! These state what your rights and obligations are. If there is anything you do not understand, ask the trader to explain before signing.

With the liberalisation of the telecoms market, what choice do I have for fixed line phone services?

You now have a choice of operators. You can use the 'traditional' phone line service or the internet by using the Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), whereby phone calls are made over an internet connection. Remember that in many instances, while a VoIP service may be less expensive, it is dependent on a source of electrical power.

What are my basic rights with respect to fixed phone services?

It is your right to be provided with fixed telephony no matter where you live in Malta. You also have additional rights including access to directories, to the directory enquiry service and to the use of public pay phones.

What can I do if I have a problem with my phone bill?

At no extra cost, you are entitled to receive an itemised bill, which should allow you to verify and control all charges incurred in using the fixed telephony service.

Next week: mobile telephone services.

For more information contact the European Consumer Centre and the Consumers Association at 47a South Street, Valletta, tel: 2122 1901, e-mail ecc.malta@gov.mt or info@camalta.org or visit www.camalta.org. You can also phone the Consumer and Competition Division on freephone 8007 4400 or the Malta Communications Authority on 2133 6840 (e-mail: info@mca.org.mt; website: www.mca.org.mt).

Across the EU consumers have rights. Insist on yours.

This article is intended for information purposes only. Any legal claim or action taken in the event of a dispute should be based solely on the legal texts concerned.