| Sun 3 Apr 2011 |  Paul Lucas |
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Whether it’s an unreliable connection, a high price or low speeds, there are plenty of reasons to switch broadband provider. However, how does the process work and how can you ensure you’re getting the best available deal? Here is a step by step guide:
Step one: Ask for a better deal.
If you’ve been with the same broadband provider for several years then chances are you could get a better deal without switching to a different company. Prices for high speed broadband have dropped significantly from around £50 a month for a 1Mb connection in 2003, to £7 a month for a 24Mb connection today. So if you’re generally happy with your service, consult your existing provider and see if it will offer you a better deal before you switch.
Step two: Shop around.
| Should you decide to switch, use a comparison website to compare the deals available in your area. Generally, you simply enter your postcode and the broadband speed you desire and it will return quotes from a number of providers. Remember to think about more than monthly charge alone and also consider download/upload speeds and whether there is a cap on the amount of data you can download monthly. Also use 5hop5.co.uk to research discount codes from broadband providers before completing your switch as they could save you significant amounts of money. |
Step three: Get your MAC.
Your current provider should issue you with your Migration Authorisation Code (MAC), which you pass on to your next provider so your service can be set up without breaking your connection.
Step four: Check your contractual obligations.
Ensure you are free of any contractual obligations before you make the switch – for example, will you have to pay a cancellation fee to end your existing deal? If so, it might be worth waiting a little longer to make the change – or you may find that the money you will save moving to a new deal now makes it worthwhile to pay the cancellation fee. Check the details of your warranty too. If the provider has made a service agreement that they have breached then you may be able to switch on these grounds without incurring any fees.
Step five: Remember your rights.
Generally speaking, moving from one broadband provider to another is straightforward. However, there have been a handful of high profile cases in which providers have made life difficult for consumers. If you’re experiencing these issues, remember you have rights. Keep a log of any issues and report service problems to Otelo and Ofcom. Keep up the pressure with your provider too and don’t be put off by being left on hold for long periods by its customer service line.
