Oh how completely one-sided these things can be.

As is the case with most major conglomerates, contracts are often littered with “fine print” that most people are not interested in reading. A charming salesman or saleswoman can “review” this fine print with you, but you can be assured you’re only hearing what you want to hear. Take for example the following excerpts as taken from actual maintenance agreements that are offered to elevator owners:

1. You agree not to permit others to make alterations, additions, adjustments or repairs or replace any component or part of the equipment during the term of this agreement. You agree to accept our judgment as to the means and methods to be employed for any corrective work under this agreement….

What that means to you… You must accept your elevator company’s prices for repairs and alterations no matter how excessive they are, or may seem. If you circumvent this portion of the contract and secure the services of another elevator company to make alterations (at a cheaper price), your existing service company will never work on the altered or replaced component; and if they do, you’ll pay a high premium.

2. You hereby waive trial by jury….

What’s that now? You agree to waive your constitutional right? Where do I sign??

3. This agreement is effective for five (5) years and is non-cancelable. This agreement will be automatically renewed for successive five year periods, unless you serve written notice 90 days before the end of the initial, or any subsequent five year period.

Non-cancelable? No matter how egregiously substandard the quality of service you receive is, you’re stuck with it unless you buy out of the contract (in full). Now that’s a bargain. And if you miss your chance to opt out of the agreement (within 90 days before it expires), you’re on the hook for another 5 years! I challenge you to guess how many times a customer is warned that their deadline is approaching.

As these are only a few of the considerations of a typical service maintenance agreement, you are urged to diligently review your contract or have it looked over by your legal counsel before committing to anything. You may also fax a copy of your agreement to our office (561-795-9735) and we’ll be happy to make any necessary changes (to your benefit) and send it back for your review.

We offer this service free of charge as well, so what do you have to lose?