Complaint Review: Monitronics International

We purchased a new home in August 2000 and had our security system installed in September 2000. When we signed the contract we specifically asked about renewals. We were told that no matter what the contracts say, it is illegal in California for a contract to be automatically renewed without us signing a new contract.

We didn't think anything more about it until just recently. We were unhappy with Monitronics service and the rising rates. We had already had three increases in just the last two years. So, we decided that we wanted to change to a different, more reliable, system. We called ADT and asked them to come out and talk to us about their system.

ADT came out in April 2004, almost two years AFTER our initial contract with Monitronics. We had already met our obligation since our contract only called for 2 years, therefore we decided to let ADT install their system. We asked the salesman that came out to sell us the ADT system and he told us the same thing we were told 4 years ago - that no matter what contract the company may use, it is illegal in California for any contract to automatically renew. Once the obligation is met, it reverts to a month to month (same as when you sign a contract with a cell phone company).

We had ADT install the new system and then called Monitronics to cancel our monitoring. They told my husband that we could not cancel until September 2004 when our contract would be up. My husband told her that the contract was already up in September 2002 and she told him that it automatically renews unless we notify them in writing at least 90 days prior to the expiration. My husband said that we were done with them and she threaten to turn us over to collections. The phone call ended there.

We have since sent the written letter canceling our contract (sent it certified mail). But, we still got our monthly bill. And, they have been calling the house almost every day leaving us a message on our answering machine. We called Alarm Kings (the people that installed our new system) and ADT and both told us the same thing that we were told before. In California, the contract reverts to a month to month basis once the initial obligation has been met.

I think that since I did NOT agree to an automatic renewal that I should not have to pay. I don't intend to pay it either. If anyone out there has any information about the states where this contract can not be renewed for a one year basis, please tell me. This company should NOT be in business with all that they pull. You can't cancel no matter what you try. What ever you do, do NOT sign a contract with Monitronics. You will live to regret it.

Carolyn
92154, California
U.S.A.