Avoid Digital Rogues
NEWS STORY: NOVEMBER 2009
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Switching to digital should be easy and straightforward. But they’ll be some out there who want to exploit the situation. It’s why Digital UK and Trading Standards are reminding us what to do if we need to replace equipment.
Here are their top ten tips on making sure your switchover is trouble-free.
Top ten switch tips
- There’s no such thing as a digital aerial. Most aerials (as you already have for your TV) are fine for receiving digital signals. However, about 5 to 10% of aerials will need replacing – the usual cost to repair or replace these aerials is £80 to £150. So be wary of any higher costs. Or anyone who says that you need a replacement when your existing aerial is working fine.
- If you’re not sure whether you need a new aerial, use the test card on Teletext page 284.
- If you need a new aerial, only use a Registered Digital Installer (RDI) – they will carry the digital tick logo. Visit the RDI website for a full list of installers in the North West or call the Digital UK Helpline on 08456 50 50 50.
- If you can’t find a nearby Registered Digital Installer that carries a tick logo, look for one that’s a member of the Confederation of Aerial Industries Limited (CAI Plus) or The Independent Digital Standards Commission (IDSC).
- Ask family and friends to recommend an installer that they’ve use or know of.
- It’s always a good idea to get quotes from at least two installers (even when they’re recommended or accredited).
- Nobody from Digital UK or the Switchover Help Scheme will visit your house (unless you’ve arranged this). Even if you have arranged for work to be done, ask to see photo identification.
- If an aerial installer calls without an appointment and fails to show you identification, don’t agree to have any work done.
- Before work starts, always agree a price, payment arrangements and work start/finish dates. And NEVER pay for work upfront.
- If you suspect that you are the victim of a rogue trader, or that one is operating in your neighbourhood, call Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.
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