How to avoid a dodgy gym contract
Gym memberships seem like a good idea at the time, but many new
members often change their mind soon after joining.
However, no matter how genuine or sincere your reason for
cancelling is, ending a gym membership is not made easy and many
people are put through protracted and expensive ordeals before they
get out of their contract.
In many cases, new members are stunned to find that they have
unwittingly signed up to a concrete 12 month contract.
Others learn that they face a three month notice period or an
exorbitant cancellation fee. The majority of people in all these
cases say they would not have joined had they known about these
terms.
Unfortunately gym contracts are not regulated and are not
subject to 7 day cooling off periods, so once you're in, you're in.
Cancelling a gym membership is nigh on impossible.
Therefore the best solution to gym contract problems is
prevention. The best advice is to read the contract carefully and
only sign once you fully understand all the terms and
conditions.
- Take the time to read through the Terms and Conditions. Take it
away if necessary - it is your right to have reasonable opportunity
to familiarise yourself with the contractual terms before
signing.
- Take particular note of clauses in relation to tie-ins, notice
periods and cancellation penalties. Do not mistake the notice
period for cancellation with the length of the contract.
- If the contract contains clauses which refer to automatic
membership renewal, ask for this to be removed, or make a note of
the date by which you should inform them.
- By law, the contract must be presented in simple, jargon-free
language. if you are unsure about anything ask for full
clarification
- A contract is a two-way process. Don't be afraid to ask certain
clauses to be struck out if they seem unreasonable or you are not
happy.
- Take extra care with introductory offers and special deals.
Clubs may waive their joining fee but still charge you the
equivalent as an 'admin' fee. Always read the small print.
Claims Financial