We're having a major problem here at Node Six. There seems to be a laxity on our client's part with Domain Name renewals, which is essentially connected to hosting renewal.

Typical scenario is, 3 months to a domain expiring; we get a notice from our registrar. We inform the clients about the pending expiration. The client says, "okay, we'll pay when the time comes".

Over the course of the next 3 months, we keep constantly informing the clients of the expiration, via phone and email, and we keep getting the same response. "We're aware, we'll look into it,  we'll pay".

Then suddenly, the domain expires.

First we suspend the hosting, because their domain has expired. Sadly, it's the most effective way of getting the client's attention.

Once the domain name expires, it goes into a 10 day grace period. During which time, it is very advisable to renew the domain name, no additional costs are incurred.

If it's not renewed within the 10 days, it goes into a 30-45 day redemption period, meaning to get your domain name back, you'll need to pay an $80 penalty fee (about 140,000/=) plus the 25,00/= for the renewal, plus the hosting fee.

So basically, by ignoring to renew the domain name, you incur an extra 140,000/=

Ironically, some clients still refuse to respond at this point.

After the 30-45 day redemption period, the domain name goes back into the public pool, meaning anyone can buy it. At this point, there are hundreds of companies eyeing the domain knowing that it has an owner and the owner will pay to get it back. Once they hijack the domain, it's a very painful and expensive process to get it back.

A reluctance to clear a 120,000/= fee can end up costing thousands of dollars, or worse still, a hijacked domain. 

My concern then, is this: Why would a company, organisation or indivual sacrifice a domain they have been using in their public relations, print campaigns, email, even their website?

To any client reading this: Please please please renew your domain name and hosting within the 3 month window we give you. It's only fair to yourself. I wouldn't mind you shifting your hosting elsewhere if you really have to, but secure your domain name, it's a big part of you or your company's future. 

Comments (3)

1. Written by This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , on 01-03-2008 12:55 This is so sad especially when you have invested alot in marketing your domain and you suddenly loose it. I have seen very many websites being suspended due to negligence on the client's part yet normally this could be avoided at the lowest cost.  I once discussed this with a collegue who advised such clients to sign up for .ug domains [which may be more expensive]where you may have better control and competition for the same domain may be zero considering that these are managed locally here in Uganda.

3. Written by This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , on 18-07-2008 09:35 What do you guys say about clients who shift their websites to other providers leaving behind uncleared bills?

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