You see an incredible broadband deal – lightning-fast speeds for a bargain price and seemingly no hidden fees.
Suddenly, you’re being charged for things you didn’t expect: installation fees, equipment rental, and even mysterious mid-contract price increases.
Sound familiar? You’re not alone.
Broadband contracts are notorious for hiding unexpected charges in the fine print—and unfortunately, many people don’t find out until it’s too late.
As of 2025, Ofcom made it mandatory for broadband suppliers to always clearly state when price rises or inflation will occur during a customer’s contract.
Despite this, a lot of people are still getting caught out!
At Switch Experts, we believe your broadband should be transparent, straightforward, and exactly what you agreed to.
Here’s how to avoid any hidden fees, and why using our service could save you money (and stress).
The Most Common Hidden Fees in Broadband Contracts
Even the most trusted household broadband providers can include these common hidden costs:
Activation or Installation Fees
These are often disguised as “setup charges” and may be added to deals that are advertised as free or discounted. It’s not uncommon to see a surprise £30–£60 fee on your first bill—even when the ad said “no upfront cost.”
Router Rental Charges
Some providers will loan you a router for “free” but then charge you a monthly rental fee that adds up over time. This can tack on an extra £5–£10 a month, quietly increasing your total annual cost.
Early Termination Fees
Want to cancel early because the service isn’t right for you? Expect to pay. Many providers charge for the remaining months of the contract, which can reach into the hundreds if you’ve signed up for a long-term deal.
Mid-Contract Price Hikes
This is perhaps the sneakiest of them all. Some broadband providers include terms that allow them to increase your price during your contract – often in line with inflation plus a few percentage points. That cheap deal you signed up for could become far less attractive after 6–12 months. Luckily, suppliers now have to be transparent when mid-contract price hikes are included – but it doesn’t make them less bothersome!
Why Do Providers Hide Fees?
The broadband industry is highly competitive, and providers know that low advertised prices attract customers.
Unfortunately, those attractive prices often mask the true cost of the service.
The real money is made through add-ons, penalties, and price escalations that many customers don’t notice until they’ve already signed on the dotted line.
These tactics are frustrating—and sometimes feel intentionally misleading. That’s why it’s so important to know what to look for and ask the right questions.
How to Avoid Hidden Broadband Costs
Here are some simple ways to avoid getting caught out:
- Use Trusted Comparison Tools: Look for platforms (like Switch Experts!) that clearly break down the total cost of the contract, not just the base monthly price.
- Ask Directly About All Fees: Before signing anything, request a full breakdown of all potential charges, including installation, equipment, early exit, and any price review clauses.
- Avoid Long Contracts Without Guarantees: If a contract is 24 months or longer, ensure the price is fixed for the entire period.
- Know Your Cancellation Rights: Most broadband contracts come with a 14-day cooling-off period. Use this time to review everything and change your mind if needed.
The Switch Experts Advantage
We believe in total clarity.
When you use Switch Experts, you’re not just seeing a price – you’re seeing a complete picture.
– We calculate your monthly bill, any set up fees, and advise on what speeds you can realistically expect
– Tailored offers are delivered directly to you
– Our experts are on-hand every step of your switch to ensure you are content with your new supplier.
In short, we do the digging for you so you can switch with confidence.
Don’t Let Hidden Fees Eat Into Your Savings
Choosing a broadband provider should be simple and straightforward.
At Switch Experts, we’re here to take the confusion out of the process.
Next time you switch, make sure you’re not just getting a great deal – but a fairly priced one.
