The problem with VOIP Leasing… (and its a BIG problem)
As the BT ISDN switch-off (or what we like to call the Great British Switch-off) quickly approaches, we’ve heard of many Telecom providers persuading customers to sign up for long-term contracts by financing or leasing subscription services for VoIP phone systems. And we are here to tell you why thats NOT a good thing…
Have you been offered a lease to cover your entire new phone system in one ‘simple monthly payment’?? The handsets, the contract buyout, maybe a years free rental, all your monthly costs, the calls, even your annual maintenance??
Lets explore that a little…
Leasing telephone services may appear cost-effective, but it often leads to unexpected fees, no ownership, and limited flexibility, turning into a burden. This article discusses the risks of leasing, its long-term drawbacks, and the benefits of investing in your own communication infrastructure for better value and control.
What is VOIP Leasing?
It all gained traction with one large telecoms company - lets call them HaHa! - and 7 year contracts for phone systems - with really sexy looking handsets, and lots of glossy TV ads, mailers extolling the benefits of lumping it all into one payment…
All sounds a bit too good to be true? As is so often the case… it is!
We’ve recently become aware of other companies, some based in South Yorkshire, offering similar contracts - and as we have always promoted our ethical stance we have written this article to warn any local companies about this.
Even if you don’t ultimately use VOOT for your new phone system - we really don’t want you to end up regretting your decision on a provider.
VoIP leasing offers a way to obtain a VoIP license, including a phone, installation, maintenance, and calls. It’s often promoted as a low-cost option, with appealing monthly payments presented as discounts or warranties. This benefits the telecom provider since as its a lease they receive all payments upfront, leaving you bound by the lease regardless of service quality.
Think about that for a moment.
Even the smallest of systems - maybe 10 handsets over 5 years at £14.95 per month - will generate a payment of nearly £9000.00 the week to the provider within a week of signing you up… With no further payments due to that provider for the remiander of that 5 year contract.
And they still have to make all the monthly payments to the wholesaler of the lines, and the calls, and they still have to pay an engineer every time you need a call-out too. Where is the incentive to deliver GREAT customer service?
While leasing may seem cost-effective, it can expose your business to risks and high expenses:
** BIG PROBLEM** - If the telecom provider goes out of business, you might lose access to services but still owe payments for them.
You may end up paying more than necessary.
You cannot end the lease if the service is poor.
You could be stuck with outdated equipment instead of upgrading to newer technology.
We’re more than happy to discuss this with you, at absolutely no obligation. Call us NOW to arrange a chat - on 0114 321 1504