Broadband news: switching, price rises and getting a better deal

Broadband is one of the household bills people switch least often, and many pay more as a result. Recent rule changes have made moving provider easier than ever. One Touch Switch: you only call the new provider Since September 2024, Ofcom's One Touch Switch process lets you move between broadband networks by contacting only the provider you want to join. They arrange the switch with your old provider, even if the two use different networks, such as Openreach and a full fibre alternative. Your current provider still sends you key information before the switch, including any early exit charges and how leaving affects other services you take from them, such as a TV package or landline. You also no longer pay notice-period charges for the old service beyond your switch date, so there is no paying twice. If the switch goes wrong and you lose service for more than one working day, you may be entitled to compensation. Out of contract? You are probably paying too much When your minimum term ends, prices often rise. Providers must tell you before your contract ends what you will pay afterwards and the best deals they can offer. Treat that message as a reminder to compare. Once you are out of contract, you can usually leave with no exit charge, subject to a short notice period. Price rises in pounds and pence Since January 2025, new broadband contracts cannot include price rises linked to inflation. Any planned mid-contract rise must be shown in pounds and pence before you sign, so you can add it to the total cost of an 18 or 24 month deal. Social tariffs If you receive Universal Credit, Pension Credit or certain other benefits, ask providers about social tariffs. These cheaper plans are offered by many providers, but you usually have to ask for them. When comparing broadband, look at: 1. The total cost over the contract, including set-up fees and stated rises. 2. The average download speed at peak times, not just the maximum. 3. Whether full fibre is available at your address. 4. The contract length and the price once it ends. 5. Whether you need a landline at all, as many deals no longer include one.