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Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
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Robert Fairnie

Martin Lewis outlines action Sky, BT, Virgin and 02 customers can take to avoid price hike

Martin Lewis says there's still time for people to avoid April price hikes with Sky, BT, Virgin and 02 among those set to charge more from next month.

The consumer expert says its time to start haggling, with price changes often written into the small print of contracts.

The Mirror reports that energy bills, broadband and phone charges will all rise from April 1 thanks to inflation. Three Mobile and Vodafone will see bills rise by 4.5 per cent. BT and EE customers will see costs go up from the last day of March, and Sky subscribers could even be charged an extra £72 each year.

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, Martin Lewis said: "Price hikes are coming at the end of this month.

"Vodafone, EE, Three, BT, Sky, TalkTalk Virgin, EE and O2 are all raising prices. If you've got one of those contracts it's time to start haggling.

"Yes, many customers will not be able to switch because they're locked into a contract - and the price rise is written in the small print - but millions who are rolling deals can take advantage and save some money.

"If you've received a letter from your provider on a rise that's not in the small print, you have 30-days from the day you receive the letter to cancel your contract - again, this is your opportunity to score a lower deal.

"I’m talking all about call centre haggling – the powerhouse of haggling in the UK."

So how can you best refine your haggling technique?

The consumer expert says: "If you're after a cheaper TV deal, for instance, consider what channels you could easily drop.

"Once you know what you want, enter your details into a few comparison websites to get a benchmark of what is available elsewhere.

"Once you've found a deal you can afford, call up your provider and explain that you'd like to stay, but have found a cheaper deal elsewhere.

"If they're unable to help, politely ask to speak to customer retentions.

"Explain that you're going to have to leave and hopefully then they will give you a decent deal to stay."

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