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Unfair terms in consumer contracts: how to spot them
Which clauses in a contract with a bank, telecom or utility provider are void, and what a consumer can do about it.
Law for All1 min read
A term is unfair where it has not been individually negotiated and creates a significant imbalance between the rights and obligations of the trader and the consumer. Such a term is void — it produces no effect, even though the consumer signed the contract.
Typical examples
- unilateral changes to the price or interest rate without an objective criterion;
- excessive penalties that exceed the actual loss;
- fees for a service that is not in fact provided;
- terms that shift onto the consumer burdens the law places on the trader.
What to do
- Collect the contract, the general terms in force on the date of signature, and all annexes.
- Mark the specific wording that imposes an obligation without any counter-performance.
- Send a written objection to the trader identifying the disputed term.
- If refused, file a complaint with the Commission for Consumer Protection.
The platform’s automated audit flags suspect terms and drafts an objection. Complex cases are referred to a lawyer from the pro bono network.
This material is for information only and does not replace individual legal advice.