Broadband contract lengths explained
Last reviewed: 22 March 2026
Most UK broadband deals lock you in for 12, 18 or 24 months. Choosing the right length is a balance between monthly price, flexibility, and how long you expect to stay at your current address. This guide explains each option, covers what happens when your contract ends, and helps you match the term to your circumstances.
At a glance
- 12-month contracts – maximum flexibility, slightly higher monthly cost.
- 18-month contracts – a common middle ground offered by many providers.
- 24-month contracts – usually the lowest monthly price, but the longest commitment.
- Rolling / 30-day contracts – no fixed term; leave any time with 30 days’ notice, but typically the most expensive per month.
- Leaving a fixed-term contract early usually incurs an early-termination charge.
Comparing contract lengths
| Term | Typical monthly cost | Exit flexibility | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rolling / 30-day | Highest – often £5–10 more per month than fixed-term equivalents. | Leave with 30 days’ notice, no penalty. | Short-term renters, people waiting for full fibre rollout at their address. |
| 12 months | Moderate – a small premium over longer terms. | Lower early-exit fees if you do need to leave. | Renters on a 12-month tenancy, people who may move within the year. |
| 18 months | Mid-range – often the most widely available term. | Moderate early-exit fees. | Households with some stability but not a long-term property commitment. |
| 24 months | Lowest – providers spread setup costs over a longer period. | Highest early-exit fees, especially if you leave in the first 12 months. | Homeowners or settled tenants confident they will stay put. |
How to calculate the true cost
Monthly price alone does not tell the full story. To compare deals on different term lengths fairly, calculate the total contract cost:
- Total cost = (monthly price × number of months) + any setup fee − any cashback or voucher.
- A 24-month deal at £28/month with a £0 setup fee costs £672 in total.
- A 12-month deal at £32/month with a £0 setup fee costs £384, but you will need a new deal after 12 months, potentially at a different price.
If you are comparing a 12-month deal against a 24-month deal, doubling the 12-month total gives a rough comparison, but remember that market prices may drop (or rise) by the time you renew.
What happens when your contract ends?
When a fixed-term contract expires, your service does not stop. Instead, you roll onto an out-of-contract rate, which is almost always more expensive. Ofcom requires providers to send you an end-of-contract notification telling you:
- What you currently pay.
- What the out-of-contract price will be.
- The best deals the provider can offer you.
This is the ideal moment to either negotiate a new deal with your existing provider or switch to a competitor. See our when to switch guide for detailed timing advice.
Matching contract length to your circumstances
Renters and short-term lets
If your tenancy agreement is 6 or 12 months, a 24-month broadband contract is risky. You could end up paying early-termination charges when you move. A 12-month contract or a rolling deal is safer, even if it costs a few pounds more each month. Some providers will transfer your contract to a new address if they serve it, but this is not guaranteed and may involve a new activation fee.
Stable households and homeowners
If you are settled and do not plan to move, a 24-month contract usually offers the best value. The monthly price is lower, and many providers include the router at no extra cost on longer terms. Just be aware of mid-contract price rises, check whether the contract states a fixed price or allows annual CPI-linked increases.
Uncertain plans
If you might move, change jobs, or are waiting for full fibre to arrive at your address, a rolling or 12-month contract keeps your options open. The small monthly premium is effectively an insurance policy against paying a large exit fee.
Early-termination charges
If you leave a fixed-term contract early, you will typically owe the remaining monthly payments minus a small reduction. For example, leaving a 24-month contract after 10 months could mean paying 14 months’ worth of charges. Some providers cap this or reduce the fee as you get closer to the end date. Always confirm the exact amount before committing to a switch, see our exit fees guide for more detail.
Frequently asked questions
Can I change my contract length after signing up?
Generally no. Once you have agreed to a fixed term, you are committed for that period. You can leave early by paying the termination charge, but you cannot simply shorten the contract.
Are 24-month contracts always cheaper per month?
Usually, but not always. Some providers occasionally run promotional pricing on 12-month deals that undercuts their 24-month options. Always compare total cost over the full term rather than monthly price alone.
Do I have to sign a new contract when mine ends?
No. You can stay on the rolling out-of-contract rate indefinitely, but it will be more expensive. You are free to switch provider or negotiate a new deal at any time once your fixed term is over.
What if I move house mid-contract?
Many providers will move your contract to a new address at no charge if they serve it. If they cannot provide service at the new address, most will waive the early-termination fee. Check your provider’s specific policy before moving.
Is a rolling contract the same as no contract?
Not quite. A rolling contract still has terms and conditions, but the fixed period is just 30 days. You give 30 days’ notice to leave, with no early-termination charge.