Legal Question in Consumer Law in Washington

Re: Automatic contract renewal for security alarm services

Washington doesn't have specific rules for home security monitoring contracts, BUT does apply common law rules including the Statute of Frauds, which says (among other things) that a contract that cannot be executed in less than one year (like a 3-year contract for home monitoring) have to have a WRITING - a contract.

If you have not signed anything that indicates you are signing up for three years service, then they cannot make you pay for an additonal 36 months on the basis of their assertions.

As to the 60-day notice: Depends on what your contract says, bottom line. Most contracts are for 30 days term and extend indefinitely, and notice of cancellation has to be provided no less than 30 days from end of period.

Here's what I'd suggest you do. Go to www.access.wa.gov (the Washington State homepage) go to the AG's website, and tell the AG what you described here.

Rather than seethe about this, better to know your rights. Haul out the contract and read it.

Know that Washington will enforce contracts signed by the parties to be charged, with a limited exception for adhesive contracts, which will be construed against the maker (the company). Washington also has the Consumer Protection Act, which provides a remedy against unscrupulous merchants.

Good luck.