The Wireless Code of Conduct: A Rundown of Your Rights as of June 3rd, 2015

Good news, everyone! If you’re Canadian, as of June 3rd, 2013, you are now protected under the Wireless Code of Conduct. Here’s a quick rundown of some of the important points that you should know:

– No cancellation fees after 2 years
– Limit on data and roaming charges
– Unlocked cellphones
– Trial period
– Clear language
(via: http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/info_sht/t16.htm)

Cancellation on Cancellation Fees
So first and foremost, customers who purchased their phone at a reduced fee in exchange for a three year contract can now cancel their plan without a cancellation fee granted that they have completed at least 2 years of the contract.

Those who started their contract before June 3rd, 2013 will be able to cancel without a fee. Those whose contracts were signed between June 30th, 2013 and December 2nd 2013 will pay a cancellation fee of up to $50, or 10% of “the remaining monthly charges under your contract”–whichever is lower.

A Limit on Data and Roaming Charges
Travellers rejoice!… Sort of. The Wireless Code of Conduct states that carriers may not charge more than $100 in roaming fees without the permission of the subscriber. So if you were on your honeymoon or a vacation and accidentally incurred $100 of roaming fees, you will have our sympathy and also receive a text message or email from your carrier requesting your permission to continue services (and charges). Of course, the best way to avoid roaming charges completely is always to unlock your phone so that you can use a local SIM card while in your travels.

Similar actions will be taken for those who incur $50 of data over usage fees when in their home network covered area.

Unlocked Cellphones
Service providers are obligated to unlock phones without restriction after 90 days of use OR if the customer purchased the phone in full. The Code is a little generous in this area, not providing restrictions on charges for the unlocks, so carriers are still in able to choose how much to charge for this service.

Trial Period
Customers now also have 15 days to test the service. Within 15 days and certain usage limits, you may now cancel your service and return the phone at no cost if you’re unhappy with the service.

And finally, Clear Language
Limitations must be written in clear language so that everyone can understand. All contracts must be laid out and presented in clear and simple language so that everyone can understand the terms. Changes to the key terms and conditions may not be made without your permission, and you have the right to refuse changes.

Of course, there are a lot more terms and rights that you should read and familiarize yourself with, especially when dealing with your service provider. Click here for more information on the Wireless Code of Conduct: http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/info_sht/t14.htm

How does this affect you? Let us know in the comments below!

-Caroline

Here is a link for a quick and easy way to calculate your cancellation fees: http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/info_sht/t1301.htm