Help! I’ve been a mug - how do I proceed?

[jnc]

I signed up to a lead generation site - <<name removed by mod>>. They promised me loads of leads and a 3 month contract initially for £168 per month. I was a complete mug and signed. 4 months later - no leads. I tried to cancel only to be told that I had signed a 12 month contract, not 3 months(this is where I’ve been a mug!). Note to self - ALWAYS read Ts&Cs. They are now threatening me with legal action for non payment. How do I proceed?

 

[fisicx]

Keep paying and cancel after 12 months. Unless there is something in the contract that says they will deliver x leads per month. But there probably won’t be as these contracts are usually pretty watertight. Do you have something in writing that promises something hasn’t happened?

 

[Mark T Jones]

Much will depend on the wording of the contract and their performance (not just generating leads, but proving they have done the job they offered)

In these cases, TBH my instinct is to stop paying and tell them to sue you. Most will back down before it goes to court.

 

[kulture]

don't wait to cancel, cancel it now. You may have to pay the full 12 months but don't fall foul of any automatic renewal.

 

[jnc]

update. I have taken advice on this, & was told the unhappy news that the contract was watertight. However, following a conversation with a senior member of their team has resulted in me being released from the contract. Learning points? 1. We’ll certainly be reading all contracts properly from now on.
2. Things can and do go wrong. It’s how you react as a company that defines your reputation. Well done to the company for their reaction

 

[HFE Signs]

I would disagree, if they don't deliver I would cancel straight away and not pay a penny more, they are unlikely to take you to court if they haven't delivered a single lead because they know their case is weak. If they did you have a strong case regardless of what you signed. The courts don't like scammers, gather your case file with copies of your emails and their replies.

 

[HFE Signs]

update. I have taken advice on this, & was told the unhappy news that the contract was watertight. However, following a conversation with a senior member of their team has resulted in me being released from the contract. Learning points? 1. We’ll certainly be reading all contracts properly from now on.
2. Things can and do go wrong. It’s how you react as a company that defines your reputation. Well done to the company for their reaction

Sorry, seen this after my comment - good result, I hope you've not had to pay to be released though.