Are you coming to the end of your broadband contract and wondering how long before your broadband contract ends can you switch and what your options are? You’re not alone! In fact, millions of people in the UK are currently paying more than they need to for their broadband package after their contract has expired. But don’t worry; there are plenty of ways to find a better deal and save yourself some cash.
What does out of contract mean?
When your contract ends, you’re out of contract. This means you’re no longer bound to your original contract and are free to either stay with your current provider or switch to a new one.
Unfortunately, many people don’t realise they’re out of contract and continue to pay the same amount they did during the contract period. This often results in paying more than necessary and missing out on great deals from other providers.
Will my broadband provider tell me when I’m out of contract?
Yes! In February 2020, Ofcom introduced new rules that meant providers are now legally obligated to inform customers when their contract term is almost up. At 6G Internet we send you an e-mail 40 days before the end of your broadband contract with us.
The end-of-contract notification for your broadband contract should include the following information.
- The date your current contract will finish
- How much you’re currently paying each month
- What services you’re currently paying for
- How much you’ll pay once your contract expires if you stay with your current provider
- The best new deals available to both new and existing customers
When will I receive my End of Contract Notification?
Your broadband provider must contact you 10-40 days before your contract is up, giving you an opportunity to shop around for a better or cheaper broadband deal.
How Long Before My Broadband Contract Ends Can I switch?
If you can access our fixed wireless fibre speed 6G Internet network you can arrange installation instantly. We can install and be ready to switch as soon as your contract ends. This means you will have no delay in switching broadband suppliers.
We are building our fixed wireless fibre speed network, if we have not quite got to your address you can still sign up with us whilst we expand. We will provide your internet service via your telephone line and swap you onto our fixed wireless network when it is available in your area, without any termination or additional charges.
So what are my options if I’m out of contract with my broadband supplier?
Now you know what to expect from your provider when your contract ends, it’s time to consider your options.
Stay with your current broadband provider
You can let the contract roll on and carry on with your current provider.
This is the easy option, but it’s also the most expensive – at least in the long run. Research by Which? found that loyalty to broadband companies doesn’t pay. Customers who stick with the same service provider end up paying significantly more than new customers for the same download speeds.
Switch broadband provider
The second option is to switch broadband provider. Here are a few things you need to consider when browsing for a better deal.
Speed
Broadband speed is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing to switch broadband provider to a new provider. An internet speed of 25Mbps is considered good, although larger households where multiple people are online simultaneously may require 75Mbps.
Data Allowance
Consider how much data you need each month and whether the provider offers unlimited data. If you stream lots of movies and TV shows, you may need an unlimited data plan to avoid going over your limit and incurring extra charges, when you switch broadband provider
Price
Price is always a key consideration. Check the monthly cost of the package and whether there are any setup fees or hidden charges to be aware of.
Customer service
Lastly, check the provider’s customer service reputation. Look for reviews and ratings from other customers to ensure that the provider offers good customer support and responds promptly to any issues or concerns.
6G Internet: the smart choice for out-of-contract broadband customers
If you’re an out-of-contract customer looking for a new broadband provider, 6G Internet is a great option. Check to find out which broadband packages are available in your home.
(Tell us your postcode & house number so we can tell you which deals are available!)
We offer fast and affordable broadband with speeds up to 75 Mbps, unlimited data, and guaranteed speeds to the router.
Deals start from under £20 p/m.
There are no zero set-up or line rental costs, and our customer service centre is locally based, so you can always speak to a ‘real’ person when you need help or advice.
Fixed contract price promise
And we never increase prices mid-contract.
Sign up with 6G Internet today.
End of broadband contract – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch broadband provider before my contract ends?
If you want to change broadband provider before the end of your minimum contract period, you will probably have to pay early termination charges. If you are not getting the download and upload speeds you were promised you can cancel without charges, but you will have to prove the speeds are consistently poor. Check with your current broadband provider whether you will need to pay any charges when you switch.
How early can I switch my broadband provider?
You can switch to a new broadband provider whenever you want to! Almost all broadband suppliers have Minimum term contracts, if you want to exit early most internet service providers will charge an exit fee.
Do I have to cancel my internet before switching broadband provider?
It depends on the technology your existing and new broadband provider uses to deliver your broadband connection. If your property has fibre to the property (FTTP) through a direct connection, switching should be quick and easy. If your property has fibre to the cabinet (FTTC) then you will have to wait for service to switch over. If you are switching to a fibre speed fixed wireless connection you can get installed and connected before you cancel your current contract.
How much notice do I have to give to switch broadband provider?
How much notice do I need to give my current provider? For most internet service providers, you’ll need to give at least 30 days’ notice. You can do this via email or by phone.
Are broadband contracts legally binding?
Yes, your broadband contract is a legal agreement binding you and your internet service provider together for an agreed fixed term, usually 24 months.
Can I have 2 broadband providers?
Technically, there is no reason why you can’t have multiple broadband connections within the same house. However, you may need to pay to have another line installed. This is because many broadband plans, even from different ISPs, use the same infrastructure. Unless you opt for a fixed wireless connection where your broadband provider will own and operate their own network.