Protection One Alarm Monitor

1)High cost for service calls:
Protection One told me it would cost $90 per hour--one hour minimum-- just for a technician to remove a wireless sensor from one window and put it on a replacement window. This can be done in less than 15 minutes! These charges are not listed anywhere in the contract. When I threatened to cancel, the local office agreed to charge me a lesser amount for a lesser period of time. My new alarm company charges only $35 for a service call, no matter how long it is.
2) Intimidation tactics:
When I informed Protection One that I would be switching alarm companies, they said they would charge me for "their" equipment. Otherwise, they said they had the right to come and take out "their" equipment. Lo and behold, there was something about them retaining ownership on the back side of the contract--it was written in about size 6 font in light gray type. The problem is that I already paid for all of this equipment!
I contacted the Department of Consumer Affairs, who agreed that the equipment belonged to me if I could show that I paid for it. (This is because the contract says, "except as stated herein.") Both the contract and my credit card statements show that all the equipment was sold to me and for which amounts.
In my written cancellation notice--sent certified mail--I told them to communicate with me solely in writing. This is because one of their reps would not allow me to tape the call. From that point on, I refused to talk with any of their reps on the phone. After my letter was delivered, they still tried to talk to me over the phone! The first time they called me from their National Call Center. I told the gentleman that I would like them to communicate with me in writing, and said "goodbye." To my shock, I received another phone call immediately after that, but from their local office. This time I said, "put it in writing," and hung up. Can you believe they called again? I did not answer. I finally detailed my complaints in a letter I mailed to their CEO. I also attached a copy of my cancellation letter and my credit card statement showing that I was actually charged for the equipment. My contract is all paid up, and I gave them much more than the required 30 days notice. We'll see what happens now!

Posted 07/23/08 | Report Abuse

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this is a wonderful business they offer reliable services for your home or business in security. they can be trusted and offer the latest in products. they are friendly and have competitive pricing, they have a product for everyone and their technicians are knowledgeable and very helpful.

Posted 07/12/05 | Report Abuse

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