When considering getting a hosted PABX service provider for your business, you need to have your facts right in all aspects of the deal. This is a major investment and lack of due diligence may end up becoming major loss in the long run. In this regard, you need to get the facts right from the get-go in order to be on the safe side. There are several questions that are fundamental and vital to ask your service provider but ten of these questions are the most important. In addition to saving money, you also need to assess the quality of service of your provider.

1. What is the termination policy?
   The termination policy of contract must be clearly stated. You need to know the implications of terminating the contract early in terms of cost of penalty.
2. What is the cost of implementing?
   Most providers will tell you the setup and product fees. Rarely do they inform you of the startup costs which come up as hidden costs. You need to eliminate all the possibilities of any hidden costs.
3. What are the rates?
   A hosted PABX system has numerous important and special features which may come at an extra cost. In this regard, the service provider should inform you of the added cost on such features.
4. Is the system compatible with your fax machine?
   Not all phone lines that have the VoIP feature will work with a fax machine. Some will need some special equipment to work. You need to be duly informed in order to plan for any extra costs.
5. How do you handle your analog phones already in place?
   If you already have a preinstalled analog phone system, you need to know how they can be integrated to the new system.
6. How does the PABX work with remote and mobile workers?
   Know how your workers on different locations will experience the service.
7. What is the extra cost in case of expansion? You need to know how much it will cost you in case your company grows bigger and need additional phones.
8. What guarantees the quality of service?
   This will involve how easy and fast it is to get support and assistance in case you have concerns. You need to know who to contact for help.
9. Does the company have an emergency line?
   Good service providers will have an emergency plan or call center to deal with such events. If a company does not have one currently, it ought to have a plan underway.
10. Does the company have long-term goals?
    This is where you know whether the company will be around in three or more years. You need a stable company that will not close shop a few months after you have invested your money on its service.