I have phoned the Halifax Mortage Centre three times in the last week using the alternative number from this site (01422 380880) each time asking to be put through to the 'Mortage Centre' as instructed. The first time I was put straight through with no problems. The second time, I was offered the 'Direct Number for the Mortage Helpdesk' but insisted on being put through, which they did.

But this morning was the cream on the cake. I called, asked for the Mortgage Centre, was again offered the direct number, but insisted on being put through...the operator then said to me 'if I put you through it will be a premium rate call'. Undeterred, I was put through.

They are obviously aware that people are calling them on the GN and staff must have been told not to put anyone through, but to give out their 0845 number, and now to tell callers that it is a Premium Rate call if they put it through. Since I called them on the 01422 number, I don't see how I can be charged a premium rate if they put it through.

This is a clear case of obfuscation, most people would be put off by what they tell you. Has anyone else had this experience with Halifax BOS? And is there any way the call could become 'premium rate' when they put it through? I feel like a complaint is in order.

alanenglish wrote on Dec 16^th, 2005 at 11:51am:

And is there any way the call could become 'premium rate' when they put it through? I feel like a complaint is in order.

No. You pay what you expect to pay when connected to such 01 and 02 numbers.

Obfuscation? Oh, I see, you mean lower ranking staff (unwittingly) lying for their bosses. UGH.