Disputes and third-party agents: who can speak for you

Republic's published terms send claims to arbitration by the American Arbitration Association under its commercial rules with a single arbitrator, and bar class or consolidated claims. Excluded from arbitration are bodily injury and property damage claims, indemnity claims, and the company's own claims to collect charges and damages from the customer.^[1] The winning party in any litigation or arbitration recovers its attorneys' fees and costs.^[1] WM's terms also use binding arbitration with a class-action waiver and similar carve-outs, including its claims for unpaid charges.^[2]

In practice, a billing dispute you raise goes to arbitration, while a collection claim against you can go to court.

Check before you hire one. Republic's published terms say all communications about the agreement must come directly from the customer, and that it won't accept communications from third parties acting as the customer's agent or representative.^[1] WM's terms let it end the agreement on 15 days' notice if the customer appoints a broker or agent.^[2]

That doesn't stop you getting help. A consultant or a provider network can price the work and draft the letters; you send the notices and sign the new agreement yourself.

Usually a local operating company, not the national brand. Republic's terms say the company is an individual operating subsidiary of Republic Services, Inc., and that the parent does not perform the services or contract with customers.^[1] Use the legal name on the service details in every notice.