£25 exit charge for releasing domain

[KellyJ]

Hi,

My client’s domain is currently hosted by Fresh Egg. Though the domain was registered some time ago, we’ve only now designed a CMS based website hosting, which will be hosted by eUKHost. It is currently being tested here using an IP address only.

We haven't formally requested a transfer yet, but when my client indicated his intention to Fresh Egg, they said:

“There is a £25+VAT admin charge to release the domain.�

I didn’t expect any charge!

Is this a justified and reasonable charge?
What is the industry standard?
Is there any way to appeal this charge?

Unfortunately, the domain name renewal date is 9th April 2007.

James

[esnail]

Its increasingly unusual, I think, for a registrar to charge for a domain to be transferred out - often there's a charge for transferring in. £25 seems a bit steep too, but a few years ago this would be considered the norm. Also check your terms and conditions, there it should state the existence of a transfer charge. If not then I don't see why couldn't contest it, although they do hold your domain for ransom in effect.

[esnail]

I could be wrong, but judging from their website hosting, it doesn't look like freshegg are actually a registrar. They perhaps register your domain through another registrar and charge you the £25+vat as an admin fee to transfer it out. I'd be surprised if they are being charged for this and its likely to take them all of two minutes to complete.

[KellyJ]

esnail,

Nominet's WhoIs says:

Registrant's agent:
Fresh Egg Limited [Tag = FRESHEGG]
URL: http://www.freshegg.com

Does that mean they are a Registrar?

With 9th April approaching, I don't wish to risk losing the domain.
As you say, they may in effect be holding the domain for ransom.

James