What should I check before switching broadband?

Confirm contract end date and exit fees, total cost of the new deal including setup, whether price rises apply, landline number needs, and whether an engineer visit is required.

Do I get a cooling off period?

Online and phone orders normally include a 14 day cooling off period. Check terms for any charges if service starts during that period, and return equipment if required.

How do I reduce downtime when switching?

For like for like switches, downtime is often brief. For cross-network moves or new installations, consider a short overlap, and keep mobile data as a fallback.

Broadband switch checklist (UK)

Q: Can I keep my landline number?

Often yes. Ask to port your landline number during sign up. Avoid cancelling your old service early if you want to keep the number.

This is the practical checklist most people wish they had before switching. Tick it off, avoid surprise costs, and reduce the chance of downtime.

Last updated: 31 December 2025

Compare broadband deals by postcode Print checklist Read the step-by-step guide

Before you order

Find your contract end date and check for early termination, cease, or disconnection fees.

Decide what you actually need, especially if you work from home, game online, or have multiple streamers. Use the speed guide if unsure.

If you still use a landline number, plan to port it during sign up. Do not cancel your old service early if you want to keep the number.

If anyone relies on telecare or medical alarms, tell the new provider and plan an overlap. Check what happens to landline services in your new package.

Write down your current router settings if needed: Wi-Fi name, Wi-Fi password, and any parental controls. This makes the changeover calmer.

Compare properly (this is where people get caught out)

Check availability at your address, not just your postcode area. Street by street differences are common.

Work out total cost: monthly price across the term, plus setup, delivery, and installation. Then subtract any bill credit.

Check price rises. If a contract includes in-contract price rises, you want the amount and timing to be clear, not vague.

Check the minimum speed guarantee. If performance stays below the guaranteed minimum after troubleshooting, you may have options to exit without penalty.

Consider Wi-Fi coverage. Many slow-speed complaints are Wi-Fi issues. For bigger homes, look for mesh or pods.

Affordability check

If you receive certain benefits, you may be eligible for a social tariff from some providers. Check this before you lock into a higher priced deal. See the Ofcom social tariff guidance: Social tariffs: cheaper broadband and phone packages.

Transparency: We may earn a commission if you take a deal via our comparison journey. It does not change the price you pay. Always check provider terms before you buy.

Order and install

Confirm the activation date, and whether an engineer visit is required.

Request landline number porting during sign up, if you need it. Keep a screenshot of the request.

Plan for working-from-home continuity. If the switch is cross-network or needs installation, consider a short overlap and a mobile hotspot fallback.

Keep packaging for routers and any extra kit, in case you need to return it.

Cooling off period

Online and phone orders normally include a 14 day cooling off period. Check the provider’s terms for what happens if service starts during that period, and what you must return if you cancel.

Activation day (keep this calm and simple)

Plug in the new router only when instructed. If you swap too early, you can lose service before the new one is active.

Test on Ethernet first, then test on Wi-Fi. If Wi-Fi is slower, it may be coverage rather than the line speed.

Save evidence: screenshots of speed tests, order confirmations, promised speeds, and any fault reference numbers.

Check your old service status. Most fixed-line switching is managed by the new provider, but some edge cases need manual cancellation.

First 14 days

Set a calendar reminder for the end of your cooling off period.

Check the first bill for setup fees, delivery, credits, and the monthly amount.

Return old equipment if requested. Use tracked delivery, and keep proof of posting.

Fix Wi-Fi early if coverage is weak. Move the router, adjust bands, or request pods if included.

If something goes wrong

Speed below the guaranteed minimum

Test on Ethernet. Report it. Follow the provider’s troubleshooting steps. If they cannot fix performance to the guaranteed minimum, you may have rights to exit without penalty depending on the provider and product.

Helpful next step: How to test speeds properly

Delays, missed appointments, or loss of service

Some providers participate in Ofcom’s automatic compensation scheme for certain delayed activations, delayed repairs, and missed appointments. Check whether your provider is signed up, and what is covered.

Ofcom: automatic compensation

Switching confusion

If you are unsure whether you need to cancel, use the step-by-step guide and the One Touch Switch notes. Mobile broadband and some network moves can behave differently.

Switch broadband UK: step-by-step guide

Consumer-first reminder

If your broadband is essential for work, care, or safety, plan a fallback before switching. A short overlap, a mobile hotspot, or access to a neighbour’s Wi-Fi for one day can remove the stress.

FAQs

Do I need to cancel my old broadband?

Often no for fixed-line switching, as the new provider typically manages the switch. Mobile broadband switches may need manual cancellation after the new service is live.

How do I reduce downtime?

Like-for-like switches often have brief downtime. Cross-network moves or new installations can take longer, so consider a short overlap and keep mobile data ready.

Can I keep my landline number?

Often yes. Ask to port your number during sign up. Avoid cancelling the old service early if you want to keep the number.

What should I look for in price rises?

Look for clarity on the amount and timing. If rises apply during contract, you want them stated clearly, not as a vague percentage.

Compare broadband deals by postcode Read the step-by-step guide Use the speed guide