Canadians can expect clearer TV bills from cable and satellite companies thanks to the new Code the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) unveiled today.
Canadians have complained that companies don’t always provide clear information about service packages and pricing. To address that complaint, the CRTC first published a draft Code, but the final version of the rules forces the players to provide customers with information in a clear and easy-to-understand format; clearly set out the duration of promotional offers and the regular price once the discounts end; and give 30 days’ notice to customers in the event of a change in the price of channels, bundles of channels, or rental equipment, among others.
Under the new Code, people with disabilities will have access to a 30-day trial period. Also, starting in March, the CRTC will require providers to offer basic packages of channels for $25 per month, alongside the option of buying individual channels or small bundles, the Star reports.
The new Code will be mandatory on September 1, 2017, so companies will have enough time to prepare their systems and processes to comply with the new rules.
