posted 15th June 2023
Beware of Spanish Timeshare Claims: Protect Yourself from Upfront Fee Scams
Timeshare claims have become a persistent issue plagued by misinformation, and it's crucial for consumers to be aware and vigilant. The National Timeshare Helpline receives numerous enquiries from members of Club La Costa and Diamond Resorts who have fallen victim to unnecessary upfront fees when pursuing timeshare claims through the Spanish courts. This article aims to shed light on the pitfalls of processing claims in Spain and provide an alternative approach to seeking compensation without incurring upfront costs or risks.
The Truth about Spanish Timeshare Claims
While winning a timeshare claim in Spain may seem feasible, actually receiving the compensation you deserve is an entirely different challenge. This is precisely why companies operating in Spain are primarily focused on profiting from upfront fees rather than securing compensation for their clients. Therefore, it is essential to question who will be responsible for paying you if your claim is successful. Unfortunately, the timeshare industry does not provide a pot of gold to rectify the mis-selling it has perpetrated.
The Downfall of Unregulated Advice and Upfront Fees
One of the biggest pitfalls for timeshare owners in the UK is seeking advice from unregulated marketing companies that demand upfront fees. This has resulted in the loss of both the initial fee and the compensation from the finance company that funded the timeshare purchase. It is crucial to note that such claims could have been processed in the UK without requiring any upfront fees. Unlike Spanish claims, these UK-based processes do not encounter hurdles due to cross-border jurisdiction issues.
The Transfer of Clients and Red Flags
In recent weeks, reports have surfaced regarding Spanish companies based in Tenerife and Gran Canaria attempting to transfer their clients to British-based "lawyers" due to their inability to pursue claims abroad. This raises several red flags and highlights the need for caution when dealing with such companies. It is important to explore alternatives and be wary of tactics employed by these organizations.
A Safer and Easier Way to Seek Compensation
Fortunately, there is a much simpler approach to claiming compensation without falling victim to upfront fees. If you have purchased a timeshare using Barclays Partner Finance, Shawbrook Bank, Hitachi Personal Finance, Honeycomb Finance, or First Holiday Finance, your purchase is protected under the 1974 Consumer Credit Act. This means you have legal recourse in the UK without the need to pay any upfront fees. By pursuing your claim through regulated channels within the UK, you can bypass the risks associated with Spanish claims and ensure a fair and transparent process.
We Can Help
In the realm of timeshare claims, misinformation and upfront fee scams persist, posing significant risks to consumers. However, by understanding the limitations and pitfalls of Spanish claims and seeking regulated advice in the UK, you can protect yourself from unnecessary financial loss. Remember, if you have financed your timeshare purchase through one of the mentioned finance companies, you are entitled to protection under the 1974 Consumer Credit Act. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and pursue your timeshare claim wisely.
