June 28, 2023, 3:53 am | Read time: 2 minutes
Fiber optic cables promise fast internet. However, if the expansion stalls and lines cannot be used, customers do not have to pay fees–even if a contract with a telecommunications provider has already been signed.
Currently, colorful cables are sticking out of the ground in front of many residential buildings: The expansion of the fiber optic network in Germany is taking shape. Some customers have already signed a contract with a telecommunications provider during the construction phase. Important to know: As long as the lines are not yet available, customers do not have to pay fees, according to the Consumer Center of Rhineland-Palatinate.
When is the contract considered concluded?
There is often confusion about the start of contracts and cancellation rights–also with fiber optic expansion. In principle, for door-to-door sales and distance contracts, such as online contracts, there is a 14-day right of withdrawal. A contract is considered concluded as soon as an order confirmation from the provider is received. An order receipt confirmation, on the other hand, does not constitute a binding contract commitment.
The problem: If a contract was concluded early, the right of withdrawal often expires before customers can even use the internet. Generally, consumers are then bound to a two-year term from the order confirmation.
Related: Plan for a fiber optic connection when building a house
Set reasonable deadlines for fiber optic expansion
However, if the expansion is delayed, contracts can also be terminated extraordinarily, according to the Consumer Center of Rhineland-Palatinate. However, a deadline should be set, according to the advice.
More on this (via TECHBOOK): How can tenants get fiber optic to their home?
If, for example, the expansion was promised for the next two months, two to three weeks are reasonable; for longer periods, more time is appropriate. Since July 2022, telecommunications contracts can also be canceled online.
with material from dpa