Switch and save money on broadband

**Collaborative post**

Broadband is one of life’s essentials. Like clean water, a warm home and electricity, not many households can cope without an internet connection. 

But with inflation rising constantly and a recent price increase of around 14% on broadband bills, now is a great time to switch and save.

This post is going to answer some common questions around switching broadband. It’s incredibly easy but there’s still a lot of confusion. We hope to fix that today.

Am I free to switch my broadband contract?

Yes, you are free to switch your broadband contract. There’s one thing you need to know though.

Broadband contracts have a fixed period (typically 12, 18, or 24 months), where you’re tied in. After that, it turns into a rolling monthly contract.

If you’re in that fixed term, you can leave but may be charged an early termination fee.

If you’re out of that fixed term, you can switch whenever you like for free.

How do I take out a new contract?

Taking out a new broadband contract couldn’t be easier. Very often, the system is like switching your bank account where the provider does all the work.

1. Decide whether you need the same, faster or cheaper broadband
2. Use a broadband comparison website to see what’s available in your area
3. Check the best deals to make sure they deliver what you need
4. Ask your current provider if they can beat the best deal you found
5. Select a deal and sign up for it

That’s it! Start your switch now with Broadband.co.uk to find cheap broadband deals in your area.

Most providers use the BT telephone network, and when moving between them your new provider will tell your old one you’re leaving and will handle the switch.

However, if you’re moving to a different network (going to Virgin Media from BT, for example) then you’ll need to handle the cancellation. If you’re at all in doubt, check with your old provider about the process.

If your deal comes with a free gift, check the small print to see if you need to claim it or whether it’s sent once you have begun the contract.

Do I need to cancel my old contract?

You don’t necessarily need to cancel your old contract but we recommend you do. 

If you’re switching between networks from BT Openreach to Virgin Media for example, you are responsible for cancelling.

If you’re not switching networks, your new provider takes care of it all for you.

As it’s a financial contract, we recommend telling your current provider yourself, just in case.

Can I stay with my current broadband provider?

Yes, you can stay with your current broadband provider and still save money. We suggested checking with your current provider in step 4 in the section above.

We would always recommend calling your current provider with all the deals you can get and asking they if they can beat it.

It’s a simple way to save a little money with very little effort on your part.

Be calm, be polite and tell them the price and/or speed of the best deal you found. Let them see if they can match or beat it.

You might not get the same deal as new customers but you don’t need to accept their first offer.

Saving money on broadband 

It’s easier than you might think to compare broadband and switch contracts. 

All you need to do is find a deal that works for you, give your current provider an opportunity to beat it and sign up with the provider that offers you the best deal.

A little research goes a long way – whether you’re switching or staying, always compare deals so you know what’s out there and what you should expect to pay.

If you’re on benefits, look for social tariffs to save even more. Most providers will have at least one and you sign up for those in much the same way.

Switching is easy. Postcode checkers are very good and you have 14 days to cancel free of charge if you’re not happy. What have you got to lose?