Different BT callout charges depending on your ISP

[kinmel]

For the last 2 weeks my neighbour and I have been suffering exactly the same fault on our ADSL connection.

Today, at my request, Idnet have arranged a BT technician visit to investigate the problem. Idnet tell me that if the fault is in my hardware, or extensions, then I will be billed £140 + VAT.

My neighbour has arranged for BT to make an identical visit to his house and Talktalk have told him that his bill in the event of a hardware/ extension fault will be £99 inc VAT.

Both ISPs clearly state that they are simply passing on the charge made to them by BT.

Why do different ISPs get charged such differing amounts for an identical service visit ?

[pctech]

Talk Talk are LLU so the scope is narrower.

[Rik]

I can't better Mitch's answer, Alan. BT charge to go from house to MSAN/DSLAM.

[Steve]

Don't Openreach also maintain the LLU exchange equipment?

[Rik]

Yes, but they charge the ISP for that, rather than passing the whole charge back through BT Wholesale.

[.Griff.]

Talk Talk are LLU so the scope is narrower.

Be are LLU but they charge more than Talk Talk for the SFI visit.

[Rik]

Which just goes to further muddy the waters.

[pctech]

That is a complete guess I have to say.

My understanding is that in an LLU configuration openreach test and maintain the copper loop but they cannot touch the LLU provider's kit at the exchange.

[kinmel]

Since the charge is only raised if the Openreach Technician makes a visit to your premises once it has been ascertained that there is no fault at the exchange, then there is no difference between the LLU's and BTWholesale's systems as far as this chargeable element is concerned

I would not be surprised to learn that the Talktalk script kiddie has read off the wrong amount payable !

[DorsetBoy]

Look at the different BT activation charges that are quoted. for ADSl services......( FTTC activation BTW is going up to £78.00+vat in a few months )

[Glenn]

I paid £100 to have ADSL fitted around 2002/3, before they went 'wires only'

[pctech]

I'm sure FTTC will go 'wires only' in a couple of years but FTTP is likely to remain an engineer install except in new builds.

[.Griff.]

The point with FTTC is the engineer will always have to go out to the cabinet and as a result he'll be virtually on your doorstep anyway (so to speak) so it makes sense for him to travel the few extra yards to the property to complete the install.

Obviously with "traditional" xDSL he'll be exchange based which in some cases is miles from the end user so it made sense, and saved money, to make that "wires only" asap.