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No matter which broadband provider you choose to switch to, you're entitled to a 14-day 'cooling off' window. During this time, if you change your mind about switching for any reason, you can cancel your new broadband contract without paying a penny.

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What Does "No Upfront Cost" Mean for Broadband Packages?

When you're shopping around for a new broadband deal, you might come across offers that claim to have "no upfront cost." But what does that actually mean for new customers? Simply put, no upfront cost broadband deals let you get connected without paying any fees at the start of your contract. That means you can avoid shelling out for things like:

Setup or Activation Fees for New Customers

Setup or activation fees are essentially administrative charges that cover the costs of getting you signed up with your new broadband provider. These terms are often used interchangeably and are more frequently seen with shorter-term contracts, such as one-month broadband deals. Setup fees can vary widely between providers, ranging from around £10 to £60 or more.

Delivery Charges for Broadband Equipment

When signing up for a new broadband service, you may encounter a small delivery charge. This fee, usually no more than £5-£10, covers the cost of sending you your new Wi-Fi router or set-top box if you've opted for a broadband and TV package. While not all providers charge for delivery, it's worth checking the fine print to avoid any surprises.

Installation Charges for New Broadband Lines

In some cases, new equipment or a new broadband line may need to be installed for you to access certain services, which can come with an installation fee. For example, if you're switching from a provider that uses the Openreach network (such as BT, Sky, or TalkTalk) to a provider with its own infrastructure (like Virgin Media or Hyperoptic), you'll likely need a new cable or fibre-optic line installed.

Similarly, if you sign up for TV services from providers like Sky alongside your broadband, you may need to pay an installation fee to have your satellite dish and set-top box set up. Installation charges can range from as little as £20 to upwards of £100, and these fees may apply even if the broadband package itself comes with free setup.

Why Choose a No Upfront Cost Broadband Deal?

There are a few key reasons why you might opt for a no upfront cost broadband package:

  1. You're on a tight budget and don't have the spare cash to pay upfront fees
  2. You want to spread the cost of getting connected over a longer period
  3. You don't want the hassle of paying multiple bills at the start of your contract

Ultimately, choosing a no upfront cost broadband deal comes down to your financial situation and personal preferences. It can be a great way to make getting connected more affordable, especially if you're watching your spending closely.

What Does No Upfront Cost Mean for Broadband Packages

Did you know: Some providers offer 'self-install' options, which can help you avoid installation fees even if they're not advertised as 'no upfront cost' deals.

Major Providers Offering Free Setup and Installation

Many of the UK's top broadband providers offer deals with no upfront costs, including free setup and installation. Here are a few of the best options for cheap broadband deals with no setup fees:

Plusnet: Affordable Broadband with No Upfront Costs

Known for its budget-friendly prices and award-winning customer service, Plusnet offers a range of broadband packages with no upfront costs. The only time you'll pay a setup fee is if you need a new phone line installed, which comes with a £50 installation charge. Otherwise, you can enjoy free setup on Plusnet's ADSL and fibre broadband deals.

TalkTalk: Free Setup on Most Broadband Packages

TalkTalk is another provider that offers free setup on most of its broadband deals, making it a great choice for those looking for cheap broadband without upfront costs. However, be aware that you may be charged for new equipment if you sign up for a broadband and TV bundle.

Vodafone: Fast Fibre Broadband with No Setup Fees

Despite offering some of the fastest fibre broadband speeds in the UK, Vodafone doesn't charge any setup fees when you sign up for a new deal. This makes it an excellent option if you want high-speed internet without the added cost of installation or activation.

Remember: Even with no upfront costs, you may still need to budget for a router delivery fee. Check if this is included or if you can collect it for free.

Broadband Providers That Charge Setup and Installation Fees

While many providers offer free setup and installation, some do charge upfront fees for new customers. However, these costs may be waived during special promotions or sales, so it's always worth checking for deals – especially around key shopping periods like Black Friday.

Here's a breakdown of the setup and installation fees charged by some of the UK's biggest broadband providers:

BT: Setup Fees on Most Broadband Packages

As the UK's largest and longest-running broadband provider, BT still charges setup fees on most of its packages. These costs can range from £29.99 for basic broadband to £59.99 for some bt broadband and TV bundles.

While BT does occasionally offer deals with no upfront costs, these are relatively rare. Instead, the provider is more likely to offer incentives like reward cards or bill credits to offset the cost of setup.

Sky: Installation Fees for Broadband and TV Bundles

Sky is known for its premium TV services, and as such, most of its broadband and TV packages come with setup and installation fees. These costs can vary depending on the specific sky broadband package you choose, but they typically range from £20 to £50.

However, Sky does sometimes offer deals with reduced or waived setup fees, particularly on higher-priced packages. So if you're considering signing up for a full TV and broadband bundle, it's worth looking out for these promotions.

NOW Broadband: Small Setup Fees on Most Deals

NOW Broadband, which offers broadband and TV services without a contract, usually charges a small upfront fee for new customers. However, this cost is often waived as part of a special offer or promotion.

It's important to note that NOW TV memberships, which provide access to streaming services like Sky Cinema and Sky Sports, are separate from NOW Broadband packages. These memberships operate on a pay-as-you-go basis, so you can sign up and cancel at any time without paying any setup costs.

Virgin Media: Installation Fees for New Lines

Virgin Media is known for its high-speed cable broadband services, but because it operates on its own network, most new customers will need to have a new line installed. This means that there's usually an installation fee when you sign up for Virgin Media broadband.

However, if your property has had a Virgin Media connection in the past, you may be able to avoid this fee. And in some cases, Virgin Media may offer deals with free installation as part of a promotional offer.

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Types of No Upfront Cost Broadband Deals for New Customers

No upfront cost deals are available across all types of broadband, from basic ADSL to superfast and ultrafast fibre broadband. Here's a quick rundown of the different types of no upfront cost broadband you can get:

ADSL Broadband Deals with No Upfront Cost

ADSL is the most basic type of broadband, and it's delivered through your phone line. It's usually the cheapest option, but it's also the slowest, with average speeds of around 10Mbps. If you're a light internet user who mainly browses the web and checks email, an ADSL deal with no upfront cost could be a good choice.

Fibre Broadband Deals (Superfast and Ultrafast) with No Upfront Cost

Fibre broadband, including both superfast and ultrafast options, uses fibre-optic cables to deliver faster and more reliable internet speeds than standard ADSL. There are two main types of fibre broadband:

  • Superfast fibre: Average speeds of 30-70Mbps
  • Ultrafast fibre: Average speeds of 100Mbps+

Many providers now offer full fibre packages, which provide the fastest speeds and most reliable connections. If you stream a lot of content, play online games, or have multiple people using the internet at once, a fibre broadband deal with no setup cost could be a smart choice.

Tip: If you're a student, look for specific student broadband deals. These often come with no upfront costs and more flexible contract terms.

Types of No Upfront Cost Broadband Deals for New Customers

Cable Broadband Deals with No Upfront Cost

Cable broadband is delivered through coaxial cables, and it's usually faster than ADSL but slower than fibre broadband. The main cable broadband provider in the UK is Virgin Media, which offers speeds of up to 1Gbps (1,000Mbps) in some areas. Virgin Media occasionally offers no upfront cost deals for new customers, so it's worth keeping an eye out if you're interested in cable broadband.

Student Broadband Deals with No Upfront Fees

Some providers offer special broadband deals for students, which often come with no upfront costs and shorter contract lengths. These deals can be a good choice if you're living in student accommodation and only need broadband for a short period of time.

Understanding Upfront Fees for Broadband Installation

While no upfront cost broadband deals don't charge you anything at the start of your contract, it's important to be aware of the potential fees that you could face with other deals. Here's a breakdown of the most common upfront fees:

Setup or Activation Fees for New Customers

Setup or activation fees cover the cost of getting your broadband service up and running for new customers. They can vary widely between providers, from around £10 to £60 or more.

Delivery Charges for Broadband Equipment

If you need a new router or other equipment to use your broadband service, you may have to pay a delivery fee to receive it. These charges are usually around £5-£10.

Installation Charges for New Broadband Lines

If you need a new phone line installed or your existing line activated to get broadband, you may have to pay an installation charge. These charges can be significant, sometimes £60 or more. However, many no upfront cost deals include free setup and installation, even if you need a new line.

Did you know: Some providers offer to waive installation fees if you opt for a longer contract. Consider if this trade-off works for your situation.

Advantages and Disadvantages of No Upfront Cost Broadband Deals

As with any type of broadband deal, there are both advantages and disadvantages to choosing a no upfront cost package. Here's a quick overview of the main pros and cons:

Advantages of No Upfront Cost Broadband for New Customers

  • More affordable in the short term, with no large upfront fees to pay
  • Spreads the cost of getting connected and any new line installation over a longer period
  • Avoids the hassle of paying multiple bills or large fees at the start of your contract
  • Can be a good option if you need a new connection but don't have the funds to pay for installation upfront

Disadvantages of No Upfront Cost Broadband for New Customers

  • May work out more expensive in the long run, with higher monthly fees or a longer contract term
  • May tie you into a contract for longer than you want, with early termination fees if you try to cancel
  • Some of the cheapest broadband deals may not be available with no upfront cost
  • You may not have as much choice of providers or packages compared to deals with setup fees

Balancing the Pros and Cons for Your Needs

Ultimately, whether a no upfront cost broadband deal is right for you will depend on your individual circumstances and needs. If you're on a tight budget and want to spread the cost of getting connected, a no upfront cost deal could be a great choice. However, if you're happy to pay a bit more upfront for a shorter contract or a specific package, it may be worth considering deals with setup fees.

How to Switch to a No Upfront Cost Broadband Deal: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you've decided that a no upfront cost broadband deal is right for you, here are the simple instructions you need to follow to switch providers:

1. Check Your Current Contract Terms

Before you switch, it's important to check the terms of your current contract. If you're still within your minimum contract period, you may have to pay an early termination fee to cancel your current broadband service. This fee can be substantial, so it's important to factor it into your decision.

2. Compare the Best Broadband Deals with No Upfront Cost

Once you've checked your current contract terms, it's time to start shopping around for the best no upfront cost broadband deals. Use comparison websites to quickly and easily compare offers from different providers, looking at factors such as:

  • Monthly prices and contract lengths
  • Average speeds and connection types (ADSL, fibre, cable, etc.)
  • Setup costs (if any) and delivery fees
  • Special offers, such as bill credit, free gifts, or TV packages

By comparing deals in this way, you can find the best value no upfront cost broadband package for your needs.

How to Switch to a No Upfront Cost Broadband Deal: A Step-by-Step Guide

3. Contact Your New Provider to Start the Switch

When you've found the no upfront cost deal you want, the next step is to contact your new provider to begin the switching process. They'll be able to give you more information on the specifics of the deal, such as contract terms, expected speeds, and any setup or delivery fees.

In most cases, you new provider will handle the entire switch for you, including cancelling your old service. This means you don't need to contact your current provider unless instructed to do so.

Tip: Before switching, use online speed checkers to gauge your current broadband speed. This helps you choose a new package that meets or exceeds your needs.

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What to Expect: Installation and Engineer Visits

If you're switching to a no upfront cost broadband deal, it's important to understand the installation process and what to expect from any engineer visits. Here's what you need to know:

Typical Installation Timeframes and Appointments

The time it takes to install your new broadband service will depend on a few factors, including your location, the type of broadband you're getting, and whether you need a new phone line. However, most installations are completed within 2 weeks of your order being placed.

Your new provider will arrange an installation appointment with you, usually offering a choice of dates and time slots. It's important to choose a time when you can be at home, as you may need to be present to let the engineer in and answer any questions.

Self-Installation vs. Professional Installation

Some broadband packages come with the option of self-installation, which means you'll be sent a router and instructions for setting up your service yourself. This can be a good choice if you're confident with technology and want to get connected quickly, without the need for an engineer visit.

However, if you're not comfortable setting up your own broadband or you need a new phone line installed, you'll need to opt for professional installation. This involves an engineer visiting your home to set up your service for you, which may include installing a new phone line, connecting your router, and testing your connection.

Factors Affecting Installation Time and Complexity

There are a few factors that can affect how long it takes to install your new broadband service and how complex the process is, including:

  • Whether you need a new phone line installed
  • Whether you're switching to a different type of broadband (e.g. from ADSL to fibre optic broadband)
  • Whether there are any issues with the existing phone lines or infrastructure in your area

If you're unsure how long your installation is likely to take or what to expect from the process, it's best to ask your new provider for more information.

Avoiding Hidden Fees and Unexpected Charges

While no upfront cost broadband deals don't charge you anything at the start of your contract, there may still be some additional costs to watch out for. Here are a few tips for avoiding unexpected charges:

Avoiding Hidden Fees and Unexpected Charges
  1. Read and Understand Your Contract Terms -Before you sign up for a new broadband deal, make sure you fully understand the terms of your contract. Look out for details like the length of your contract, any early termination fees, and any charges for exceeding your data allowance.
  2. Ask About Any Other Fees That May Apply - When you're signing up for a new deal, don't be afraid to ask your provider about any other fees that may apply. For example, you may be charged extra for paper billing, non-direct debit payments, or moving home during your contract.
  3. Double-Check the Fine Print - It's important to read the fine print of any broadband deal before you sign up, looking out for any hidden fees or extra charges. If you're unsure about anything, don't be afraid to ask your provider for clarification.

Remember: Some providers increase prices annually in line with inflation. Look for deals with price guarantees if you want to avoid mid-contract increases.

FAQs About No Upfront Cost Broadband Deals

Still have questions about no upfront cost broadband deals? Here are answers to some of the most common queries:

Yes, many providers now offer no upfront cost deals on their full fibre broadband packages, giving you the fastest and most reliable speeds without any large setup fees.

Some providers do offer no credit check broadband deals, which may be an option if you're struggling to get approved for standard broadband due to poor credit. However, these deals may come with higher monthly fees or other restrictions.

Not necessarily - while no upfront cost deals can be more affordable in the short term, they may work out more expensive over the length of your contract due to higher monthly fees. It's important to compare the total cost of different deals over the full contract term to find the best value option for you.

When comparing no upfront cost broadband deals, there are a few key factors to consider:

  • The monthly price and contract length
  • The average speed and connection type (ADSL, fibre, cable, etc.)
  • Any data limits or usage caps
  • The reputation and customer service of the provider

Switching to a no upfront cost broadband deal is easy - simply follow these steps:

  1. Check your current contract terms to see if you'll need to pay any early termination fees
  2. Use a comparison website to find the best no upfront cost deals for your needs
  3. Contact your new provider to start the switching process and arrange your installation
  4. Wait for your new service to be installed and your old one to be cancelled

Most providers will handle the switching process for you, so you don't need to worry about contacting your old provider to cancel your service.

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Page last updated on: 19/06/2024

Page reviewed by: Brijesh Patel

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