Phone & internet
Phone & internet · the UK
Checked 2026-10-14

🔄 How do I switch my phone or internet provider in the UK?

The short answer

To switch broadband or landline, contact the provider you want to move to: under Ofcom's One Touch Switch it arranges the switch, and your old service stops once the new one works. Any loss of service must not last longer than one working day.

Switching is mostly paperwork: the network stays where it is, only the company that provides your service changes. Who arranges the switch and how long the service may be down depends on the rules in the UK.

Official source: ofcom.org.uk · Checked 2026-10-14

📜 The rules in the UK

The details

  • Your old provider must tell you about any charges, such as early termination charges, before you switch. It can't charge you for any notice period after the switch date. (ofcom.org.uk)
  • For mobile, the new provider must complete the switch within one working day. Text PAC to 65075 to keep your number, or STAC to 75075 if you don't. (ofcom.org.uk)
  • Providers must compensate you if they break the switching rules or miss a service or installation appointment. Compensation for a delayed switch or a missed appointment must be paid within 30 calendar days. (ofcom.org.uk)
  • Ofcom accredits some price comparison websites after an audit checking that their information is accessible, accurate, transparent, comprehensive and up to date. (ofcom.org.uk)

Ofcom

The UK communications regulator. It sets and enforces the rules for phone and broadband providers. It can't investigate or resolve individual complaints, but reporting faults and problems to it helps it act on wider issues.

📞 0300 123 3333🔗 ofcom.org.uk
Official source: ofcom.org.uk · Checked 2026-10-14

Compare offers

We found no official, state-run price comparison for phone and internet in the UK.

🪜 Step by step

  1. Check your current contractFind the end of the minimum term, the notice period and any exit fee. They are in your contract summary or online account.
  2. Compare offersLook at the total cost over the whole term: set-up fees, equipment, and the price after any discount period ends.
  3. Sign with the new providerSay whether you want to keep your number. Ask the new provider whether it arranges the switch and the end of your old contract.
  4. Return equipment and check the final billSend back rented equipment if you are asked to, keep proof of it, and check that the old provider stops charging you.

📇 Who to contact

OfcomThe UK communications regulator. It sets and enforces the rules for phone and broadband providers. It can't investigate or resolve individual complaints, but reporting faults and problems to it helps it act on wider issues.📞 0300 123 3333🔗 www.ofcom.org.uk
Citizens AdviceIndependent advice for consumersFor advice, template letters and a second opinion🔗 www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer

Sponsor this page → One labelled block, €100 a month. Founding price €75 until 31 January 2027.

❓ Questions

Will I be without phone or internet when I switch?

There can be a short break on the switching day. Ask both providers for the planned date, and see the rules for the UK on this page.

Can I switch before my contract ends?

Yes, but while the minimum term is still running you may have to pay an exit fee or the remaining monthly charges. Check your contract summary first.

Do I have to cancel the old contract myself?

That depends on the service and the rules in the UK. Ask the new provider and keep written confirmation of the end date.

📎 Sources

Checked: 2026-10-14

🧭 Is this still correct?

We check this information carefully, but phone numbers, websites and rules change — and sometimes we get something wrong. Spotted a mistake or a change? Let us know below.

🔗 Also useful

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