It's just not discreet to discuss these things.  YES, you need VIP.  It costs way less than even one spoiled date.
skb

The acronym jargon used in this community is usually considered too revealing for use in initial communications between agencies and clients.  You may find that after building a relationship with an agency that eases up a bit.  But going in using the jargon in contact emails, etc. often does not go over well.  Discretion is key to building a good relationship, and this lingo is indiscreet.

As suggested earlier, spend the few bucks on TER VIP.  It's an absolutely golden resource to answer many of your questions before you even have to ask.  Good luck!

knows what goes on behind closed doors of each of their providers?  As others have mentioned, it is inappropriate to ask, either on the phone or by email.  That is what the review system is for. If that particular provider does not have reviews here at TER, there are some Canadian boards you can search for.

I hope, for your sake, that that you do not get black-balled by that agency, and they just see it as a newbie mistake.