Skip to content
£ moneyguide
How-to · Step-by-step

How to switch broadband supplier

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. Contact your new provider and they handle the switch through One Touch Switch — your old contract is cancelled automatically. Check notice periods, exit fees, and whether you qualify for a social tariff before you commit.

Since September 2024, Ofcom's One Touch Switch means you only contact your new broadband provider — they coordinate disconnection with your old one. If you are on a low income, social tariffs from around £15 a month may be available; see our broadband social tariffs guide (/bills-utilities/broadband-social-tariffs-and-mid-contract-rises/) for eligibility.

Last reviewed:

·Estimated time: 14 days

The steps

  1. 01

    Check your contract end date and exit fees

    Log into your current provider's account or check your contract email. Note the minimum term end date, any early termination charges, and the notice period (usually 30 days). One Touch Switch handles cancellation but does not waive exit fees on fixed-term deals.

    Official link →

  2. 02

    Compare packages and check line speed

    Use Ofcom's broadband coverage checker or provider tools to see what speeds your address can receive. Compare total cost including line rental, router delivery, and any mid-contract price rises stated in pounds and pence.

    Official link →

  3. 03

    Check social tariff eligibility if on a low income

    If you receive Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or other qualifying benefits, you may be eligible for a social tariff at roughly £15–£20 a month. These are not always advertised — ask providers directly or check Ofcom's list.

    Official link →

  4. 04

    Sign up with the new provider only

    Under One Touch Switch you do not need to contact your old provider. Give the new supplier your address and, if prompted, the name of your current provider. They will send a switch order and confirm your go-live date.

    Official link →

  5. 05

    Allow up to one working day for the switch

    Most home broadband switches complete within one working day once the new line or service is activated. You may have a short period of overlap or a brief interruption. Keep your old router until the new connection is confirmed working.

  6. 06

    Return equipment and check your final bill

    Your old provider must send a final bill and instructions for returning their router within 30 days. Non-return charges can be hefty — use tracked postage. Verify you are not billed for service after the switch date.

Common pitfalls

  • Early exit fees on fixed contracts can exceed switching savings — wait until the minimum term ends or negotiate if your provider raised prices mid-contract
  • Not returning the old router triggers replacement charges of £50 or more — keep proof of postage
  • Assuming One Touch Switch covers TV or mobile bundles — it applies to standalone broadband; combined packages may need separate cancellation steps

FAQ

Do I need to tell my old broadband provider?
No. Under One Touch Switch the new provider notifies the old one. You should still watch for a final bill and return any equipment they request.
Will I lose internet during the switch?
Most switches involve minimal downtime — often less than a day. If you work from home, plan the switch for a day when a brief outage is acceptable.
Can I switch broadband if I am in contract?
Yes, but early termination fees apply unless the provider materially raised prices against Ofcom's rules or breached the contract. Since January 2025, mid-contract rises must be stated in pounds and pence at the point of sale.
← All how-to guides