New UK broadband rules help Sky, Virgin and BT users slash their bills

It’s a well-known fact that switching broadband suppliers can often save serious money off your monthly bill. Almost every UK Internet Service Provider (ISP) will offer cheaper prices to new customers whilst existing users often see bills rise once their initial contract has come to an end. For example, Virgin Media is currently offering broadband with a phone line for just £27 per month to new users but this jumps to £51 once the deal ends.

This is why it’s vital to shop around and soon it will be much, much easier to switch ISP. Telecoms regulator Ofcom has announced new rules which will force all ISPs to offer a new ‘One Touch Switch’ service.

The change means all home broadband users – including cable and full fibre customers – will only have to contact their new company to switch, with no need to speak to their current provider before making the move.

Here’s how it works:  A customer will contact their chosen new provider and give their details.

The customer then automatically receives important information from their current provider. This includes any early contract termination charges they may have to pay, and how the switch may affect other services the customer has with the company.

If the customer wants to go ahead, the new provider will then manage the switch.

It’s an important change as previous Ofcom research showed that four in ten people (41%) who decide against switching were put off by the hassle of having to contact more than one provider.

A similar number (43%) were put off switching as they think it will be too time-consuming. And of those who do switch, nearly a quarter (24%) who contact their current provider face unwanted attempts to persuade them to stay.

All providers must have the ‘One Touch Switch’ process in place by April 2023. This will involve making significant changes to their systems and will require a wide range of companies to work together. So we have made it clear to industry that work must start immediately to meet the deadline.

Speaking about the changes Lindsey Fussell, Ofcom’s Networks and Communications Group Director, said: “Household finances are strained at the moment, so switching broadband provider could help keep your bills down.

“We’re making it as easy as possible for you to break up with your broadband provider and take advantage of the deals on offer.”

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