Know your switching window
- Find your contract end date — it's on your bill or in your provider's app. Note it down now.
- Your provider must notify you 10 to 40 days before your minimum term ends, with their best available deals. Don't ignore that message.
- Start comparing a few weeks before the end date so there's no gap and no rollover onto the higher out-of-contract price.
Watch for mid-contract price rises
- Most providers raise prices once a year, usually in spring — check whether the rise is baked into your contract.
- If your provider raises prices beyond what was agreed when you signed up, Ofcom rules generally let you leave penalty-free. Read the notification carefully.
- When comparing, look at the total cost over the whole contract, not just the tempting headline monthly price.
What to actually compare
- Speed you genuinely need: streaming and video calls work fine on modest speeds for most households.
- Total contract cost including setup fees, router charges and any price rises written into the terms.
- Contract length — shorter terms cost more per month but keep you free to switch sooner.
- Customer service reputation, if that matters to you; the cheapest deal isn't always the least hassle.
How the switch works
In most cases your new provider handles the whole switch for you — you don't need to cancel the old one yourself. There's a short changeover, usually with minimal downtime, and your old contract ends automatically once the switch completes.
Frequently asked questions
Will I lose internet when I switch?
Usually only briefly during the changeover, often minutes. Your new provider coordinates the timing with your old one.
Can I leave before my contract ends?
Yes, but you'll normally pay an early termination fee for the remaining months. It's sometimes still worth it if the saving is big — do the maths first.
Do I need to tell my old provider I'm leaving?
In most cases no — the gaining-provider-led process means your new provider tells them. Check your new provider's instructions when you sign up.
Is it worth haggling with my current provider?
Often yes. Calling to say you're thinking of leaving frequently unlocks a retention deal that's never advertised. Compare it against new-customer offers before accepting.