How to avoid being scammed when looking to exit a timeshare

On the programme on Friday 1 May 2026, we investigated the case of a timeshare owner who paid thousands of pounds to companies that promised to help her exit her timeshare contract. Producer Katie Saatchi shared advice on what to do when contacted by companies about your timeshare.

• If you’re told by the caller that your name is on a ‘timeshare register’, immediately walk away – scam firms have been known to use this to frighten timeshare owners into paying for their services, but no such register exists.
• Beware of any callers that suggest huge sums of money you might be owed in compensation, on the condition that you pay upfront for their services. This is another red flag.
• Never sign up straightaway during an initial cold call, but go away and do some research into the company, or ask someone to help you. Are they a UK-based firm with a legitimate business address? How long have then been active? What do others say about them online? Do they have a formal complaints process, in case something goes wrong? If they’re claiming to be a registered law firm, look them up on the Solicitors Regulation Authority list to ensure they’re regulated.
• Take any advice from a cold caller with a pinch of salt, and contact your timeshare company directly to verify any details you’re unsure of, for example exit fees and maintenance costs you might be liable for.
• If you do believe you need legal support with your contract, consider finding a local lawyer yourself, but again ensure they appear on the SRA list, and with no caveats or warnings.
• Don’t provide personal information to timeshare claims firms advertising on social media. Some may be legitimate, but as the industry is rife with fraudsters, your details could end up in the wrong hands.
• If you want to reduce the number of cold calls you receive, sign up for the Telephone Preference Service which allows you to opt out of unsolicited sales and marketing calls. Businesses can be fined if they don’t comply.
• If you are in a timeshare agreement and need advice on how to cancel, contact Citizens Advice if you’re in England, Scotland or Wales. In Northern Ireland, you can access free support through the Consumerline.
• If you are in debt, you can get free, confidential and independent advice from a number of UK-wide organisations listed on the government website:https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice. These include StepChange and MoneyPlus Advice.