The Broadband Mistake Thousands of Movers Will Make on August 29th

To help households stay connected and avoid unnecessary stress or costs during the transition, broadband comparison expert Max Beckett has shared his top tips: 

1. Review your current contract: Start planning your broadband as soon as you know your move-in date so you can get online as soon as you’re unpacked. Check whether you're still in a fixed-term contract, when this is set to end, and what exit fees could apply if you leave early.

Usually, providers will let you transfer your service to a new home if they operate in your new area. You may face a small relocation charge,  but it’s likely to be less than any early exit fees, so it’s worth weighing this up against switching or renegotiating for better value. 

2. Check availability at your new address: Even if your provider covers the wider area, they may not be able to service your specific property. This is particularly common in flats or managed buildings, where infrastructure can vary, so it’s important to confirm connections early to avoid delays or connection gaps. 

In some new-build developments, residents may find that broadband for the entire building or street is provided by a single provider, sometimes referred to as a 'micro-monopoly'. While this limits your choice and could lead to early exit costs with your current provider, these networks are often high-quality, offering ultrafast or full fibre connections that can deliver faster speeds than standard services.

3. Compare local deals before committing: If you do need to switch, always check what’s available at your new address first. Broadband speeds, pricing, and introductory offers can vary significantly by location, so comparing broadband deals in advance can help you secure better value. 

4. Contact your current provider to arrange the move: Once you’ve checked availability and compared your options, get in touch with your provider to confirm the move, or let them know if you plan to switch. 

If you’re happy with your provider and want to simply transfer your internet to your new home, they’ll usually manage most of the process for you, such as arranging the switch-off at your old address and planning activation at your new home. 

5. Plan for temporary connectivity: Your new provider should deliver a Wi-Fi router for you to install. If there's already a working broadband line at your new home, you could be online as soon as you plug in your router.

If a new line or upgraded service is needed, engineer appointments can take several days or, in some cases, up to two weeks. Until then, mobile data or phone tethering can provide a temporary internet connection.

“Moving home is already one of life’s more stressful moments, but sorting your broadband doesn’t need to add to that. With a bit of planning, it can be straightforward, quick and cost-effective. And, in many cases, you can avoid unnecessary delays or extra costs simply by checking your options early,” comments Max. 

For further information on moving home with your broadband, visit Uswitch.