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Thinking of Switching Broadband? Here’s What you Need to Know

How to Cancel Your Broadband

Switching providers and cancelling your current broadband is often the smartest way to cut costs and unlock faster speeds.

But if you’re still mid-contract, deciding to cancel early can come with hefty charges.

This guide walks you through what to expect, when you might pay – and when you could get out penalty-free.

Will I be Charged for Leaving Early?

Most of the time, yes.

Providers usually ask you to pay for the remaining months of your contract, plus any equipment costs (like your router).

But before you panic – if you’re close to the end of your deal, it might still be cheaper in the long run to pay the fee and switch. This is especially true if you face a mid-contract price hike.

Did you know that in a recent Opinium survey, 87% of respondents said that they think exit fees should be waived, in the occasion that a provider bumps up the monthly bill mid-way through.

How much Will You be Charged if You Cancel Your Broadband Early?

If you decide to cancel your broadband contract early in the UK, it’s vital to know that early termination fees (ETFs) are common – but the costs and conditions vary by provider.

Here’s a helpful breakdown with real examples:

Sky Broadband

They calculate the fee by adjusting your remaining monthly payments:

  • They deduct VAT, subtract their saved costs, apply a lump-sum discount, then round to the nearest 25p.
  • Example: If you pay £30/month with 3 months left, your final ETF might be around £49.25.

BT / EE

Both BT and EE providers remove VAT and subtract their cost savings.

If you pay your final bill early, you may qualify for a 1% (BT) or 4% (EE) discount before VAT is added back on.

TalkTalk

Fees depend on your package:

  • Full Fibre 65: ~£27/month
  • Full Fibre 150: ~£26/month

Multiply by months left to estimate your ETF.

Virgin Media

Early exit fees vary by package. For example, if your plan costs £30/month and you have 5 months left, expect up to £100 exit fee.

Other Providers

  • Hyperoptic: £20 (broadband only) or £25 (with phone) per remaining month.
  • Community Fibre: Pay the cost of remaining months plus any waived setup fees.

Fees Frame of Mind – The Conclusion

In general, early termination fees range from £10 to over £50 per month left – or up to 80% of your remaining contract value.

It always depends on your broadband supplier, your monthly charge, and how long is left of your contract period.

Don’t Forget About Switching Credits!

Providers like EE, BT, Sky, Vodafone, Hyperoptic may offer “switching credits” to offset exit fees – often as cashbacks or bill credits, usually between £25 and £400.

Make sure to check the fine print to see if you need to claim it in advance.

You might be able to include it in your switch, consequently lowering your final bill, however, it’s key to consult your original contract.

Depending on which supplier you plan on moving to, it’s also crucial to check if they offer to buy out your existing contract and pay the exit fees for you.

Can I Ever Leave Without Paying?

Absolutely – and here’s how:

  • Haggle your way out: Not happy with your price or speed? Call your provider directly. They may offer a better deal or faster package.
  • If the provider changes the rules: If your provider significantly changes your contract terms or hikes prices beyond what was agreed, you might be able to cancel your broadband without a fee.
  • Poor service: Signed up to Ofcom’s Code of Practice? If your provider consistently fails to meet their guaranteed minimum speeds, and they can’t fix it within 30 days, you can leave at no cost. Please remember to keep written/digital evidence of any downtime and/or unsatisfactory service.
  • Cooling-off period: Just signed up? You’ve usually got 14 days to cancel without any penalty – just make sure you return any kit.

Always Stay One Step Ahead

Mark your contract end date in your calendar or on your phone.

It’s easy to forget, but if you roll past your contract without switching, you’ll likely face higher bills.

Remember: in broadband, loyalty doesn’t always pay.

Ready to Move On?

If you’ve cancelled – or are about to – you don’t have to guess what’s next.

Our experienced broadband switching team are on-hand to find the right deal for you.

Explore and compare deals and see how easy it can be to switch deals.

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Your Broadband Cancellation Explained

Broadband Cancellation Explained

How to Cancel Your Broadband

Broadband cancellation can seem daunting.

However, when you’re informed, you’ll soon realise that there’s nothing to fear!

Gone are the days of intense over-the-phone haggling, chasing emails, or sifting through contracts.

Our experts know just how seamless the broadband cancellation process can be.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps and considerations to make.

Are You at the End of Your Contract?

If you’re approaching the end of your broadband contract, you’re in the perfect position! Several weeks before your end-date, you will be notified by your supplier, who will let you know what your options are for next steps (this will either be through email or phone calls.)

Your supplier may offer you alternative deals on the same network – especially if they value loyalty! However, if you’ve got your eye on a competitor, stay resilient to their offers, and insist on broadband cancellation.

Whether you pick a new deal with the same supplier, or switch brands entirely, it’s crucial that you don’t stay put! Letting your deal auto-renew could cost you anywhere up to between 9% – 60% more per year.

Are You Mid-Contract?

Mid-contract broadband cancellations are known to be a bit trickier – and regrettably more costly!

Your first step is to review all your contract terms in detail. Take note of the contract length, cancellation fees, and notice period required by your provider. You should also carefully consider other obligations, such as your notice period and cancellation fees.

Unfortunately, it’s more common than not that you will face early exit fees. However, you can ensure that these costs are as low as possible by promptly returning any equipment (such as a router) to your supplier. Follow any instructions listed in your contract and this will help you to avoid extra charges.

Once you’re armed with this information, contact your supplier, and clearly express your intention to cancel.

It’s also crucial that you document the entire broadband cancellation process, including any emails/written requests and reference numbers. This documentation is highly valuable, should any discrepancies occur.

Is it Possible to Cancel Mid-Contract Without Fees?

Escaping a broadband contract without facing fees can be tricky, but it’s not impossible.

Here are a few examples of scenarios in which your broadband cancellation would be free:

  • Negotiate your way out: If you’re dissatisfied with your current package, try haggling with your provider. They may offer you a better deal or increased speeds to keep you. Check out our Broadband Haggling Guide for expert tips on slashing your bills.

 

  • Changes in terms: If your provider alters the terms of your contract, like significant price hikes, you might have grounds to leave without penalties. While annual price increases are common, significant changes beyond what’s stated in your agreement could give you an out.

 

  • Service faults: If your provider fails to deliver the promised minimum speeds, you have rights under Ofcom’s Code of Practice. Log a fault with your provider, and if they can’t resolve it within a reasonable timeframe, typically 30 days, you can exit the contract penalty-free.

 

  • Cooling-off period: Don’t forget about the cooling-off period! If you’re still within the first 14 days of your contract, you can cancel for any reason without facing penalties.

Our expert advisors can speak to you in-depth to help you understand your specific situation and your rights.

Ready to Switch and Save Today?

Broadband cancellation requires careful planning if you want to avoid extra fees or hassle.

Timing and contractual terms are everything. Whatever your situation, our experts are dedicated to helping advise and guide you every step of the way.

Stuck in a subpar contract? We can speak to your supplier and see if you’re entitled to leave.

If your exit fees are too high, we can help you make a switching plan for the near future.

Ready to switch today?

Don’t wait any longer – start browsing the latest offers here and see how much you could save.

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