Can I cancel my broadband mid-contract penalty-free?
Where a link is marked *, it is a partner link — we receive commission at no extra cost to you. Links without a * earn us nothing. How we make money.
In short: Generally only if the provider materially raises the price or worsens the service. Since 17 January 2025, Ofcom requires all new broadband and mobile contracts to state any price rises in pounds and pence upfront.
Last reviewed:
Reviewed by Kaiser Khan
Ofcom's January 2025 rules removed inflation-linked (CPI+) mid-contract price rises for newly signed contracts — providers must now state increases in cash terms at point of sale. If they later impose a rise that was not signposted, you have a right to leave penalty-free.
If you signed before 17 January 2025, your contract may still allow CPI-linked rises, but providers must give 30 days' notice and offer a penalty-free exit if the change is 'materially detrimental' to you.
You can also exit early if the provider fails to deliver advertised speeds under the Voluntary Code of Practice on Better Broadband Speeds, or moves you to a much worse plan without consent.
Primary source: ofcom.org.uk
Part of our Bills & utilities
This quick answer sits inside our wider bills & utilities hub — with sub-guides, calculators and step-by-step explainers on the same topic.
Read the full bills & utilities guide →