I registered a .co.uk domain with Namesco (aka NDO or Net Direct) some years ago as one of those "free domain with any hosting package" type deals. I've been renewing bi-annually since then and it's due for renewal again, but now I have my own server so I don't need their hosting. I just phoned them to ask how I transfer the domain away from them but they told me the domain is actually owned by them and I simply rent it from them! So to transfer the domain away from them, I have to pay them about £40...!! Needless to say I am just a tiny bit p*ssed off about this - does anyone know if there's anything I can do about this? Or will I simply have to pay them the £40?
Two things: 1. Read your agreement. 2. Look up the domain name's WHOIS record and see who's the registrant. If no. 2's answer is Namesco, then they're the owner. If it's you, then see no. 1.