Complaint Review: Verizon FIOS

 When I signed up for Verizon's FIOS Service (Internet, Phone Television services) I was told about the early disconnect fee. I specifically asked what would happen If I had to move.  I was told that if Verizon did not offer service at my new address, the early disconnect fee would be waived.

Well what I feard became reality. Circumstances beyond my control are forcing me to move.  Now the other shoe drops.  Verison FIOS is not available at my new address.  However, it does have standard phone line, DSL Internet connection, and they will offer Direct TV satellite service.  I am now being told that if I do not take these obviously inferior products.  I will still have to pay my early disconnect fee of $135.

DSL, I know from prior experience, will not meet my needs, it's too slow.  I have it on good authority that the standard phone service at my new location is noisy and unreliable.  I also have absloutely no interest in placing a satellite dish anywhere on my property.  I have used it in the past and did not like it at all.  I do not wish to lose signal if it rains or snows too hard.  Also, having to climb up on my roof to clear the snow off during a heavy storm in order to keep watching TV is more excitement than I care to repeat.  

My problem with Verizon is twofold. First, I ordered FIOS, not whatever they had in second place. To threaten me with financial loss in order to get me to carry out my contract with obviously inferior products is tantamount to extortion. I consider their inability to continue to provide me with the product I selected at the new location a breach of contract; if not the letter of the contract, at least the spirit of it.

Second,although I cannot prove it, The rep assured me if FIOS was not available at my new location, the fees would be waived. I am certain of this, I would not have entered into the contract otherwise. 

I should think that this kind of strong arm tactic would beneath the dignity of a company such as Verizon. I guess I overestimated their integrity. Rest assured, I will not repeat that error in judgement.