Should your business change telecoms provider?
Maybe you've found a better deal, but you're concerned about any interruptions caused by switching. Changing provider could not only save you money but could always allow your business to take advantage of newer devices and technology.
Ofcom is working to ensure that businesses can take advantage of competition in the market and switch with maximum ease and minimum hassle.
Changing provider could not only save you money but also allow your business to take advantage of newer devices, or technology upgrades.
However, if you're thinking of switching, here are some important things to consider first:
- Check how long you have left on your current contract. You may have to pay a charge - known as an 'early termination charge' - to leave during the minimum contract period.
- Make sure you understand what you are signing up to and check the terms carefully. If you are uncertain about the details of what you are being offered, seek clarification from the provider before signing up.
Click the links below to find out what to expect when switching each different type of service:
Please note that this information explains the switching process for standard services for businesses with ten employees or fewer. For businesses with more than ten employees using standard services, it is likely your provider will also follow these processes. For those with more complex services, the processes may differ. You should speak to your new provider for more details.
From 3 April 2023, providers that serve the business market will need to ensure their customers can switch using a gaining provider-led process. If you provider is on the Openreach network, it will continue to operate the current switching processes set out below until they are replaced. If your provider is with a different network, it should give you the option to manage the switch on your behalf.
Your current provider must not prevent you from switching or refuse to let you switch. There may be outstanding payments on your account relating to service charges or other additional charges, and you should settle these with your existing provider before leaving.
For all businesses, another way of cutting costs or improving services may be to call your current provider and ask them to give you a better deal - some providers may be prepared to offer lower prices and/or add-on benefits if you do so. It's important to remember you may be tied into a new contract even if you're just adding additional services - so check the minimum contract period of any new deal you are offered by your existing provider.
From 15 February 2020, broadband, phone and pay-TV customers must be told about their provider’s best deals when their initial contract is coming to an end, and every year after that if they remain out of contract.
For more information on these notifications, see our latest update.
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