Contract Information: What You Need for UK Broadband

Why understanding broadband contracts matters

Whether you are a first-time buyer or planning to switch from your current provider, it is easy to miss small details in your broadband plan. But if you read and understand your broadband contract, you can save a lot of money in the long run. This is important because monthly prices keep going up, contract lengths often change, and many plans now offer extras like WiFi guarantees or TV packages in the bundle.

Many UK homes pay too much and end up with slower speeds. This happens because they do not know the minimum term, do not understand how price rises work, or are not sure when to switch. This guide will show you all you need to know. You will read about fibre broadband, social tariffs, price increases, and good ways to compare broadband.

What is a broadband contract?

A broadband contract is a legal deal you make with your broadband provider. It tells you and them:

• The monthly price you have to pay
• The minimum term you need to stay with the plan (like 12, 18, or 24 months)
• What happens if you cancel before the end of the contract
• How and when the annual price increases will happen
• What extras you get (such as a home phone, Apple TV, or static IP)

Broadband is usually offered as a broadband package. It often has an internet connection. A router rental may also be part of it. Sometimes, you get a TV package with it too.

Broadband Deals Reviewed by James Ford, TV and Broadband Expert

Offer Ends13/07/2025

500Mbps Fibre Broadband - 12 months

• New customers only

550Mb average* speed

Unlimited Downloads

£0.00 Setup costs

12 Month contract

Pay as you goCalls

£29.00per month

Buy Now
or call 0800 977 5741

Offer Ends13/07/2025

5G Home Broadband

• New customers only
• Plug and play

150Mb average* speed

Unlimited Downloads

£0.00 Setup costs

24 Month contract

Pay as you goCalls

£19.00per month

Buy Now
or call 0800 977 5741

Offer Ends13/07/2025

500Mbps Fibre Broadband

• New customers only

550Mb average* speed

Unlimited Downloads

£0.00 Setup costs

24 Month contract

Pay as you goCalls

£20.00per month

Buy Now
or call 0800 977 5741

View All Broadband Deals

Types of broadband contracts

Before you sign up, use a postcode checker to find the relevant deals for your address. This way, you know what options are open to you at your place. It helps you compare what is really there for you, not just what you read in the news.

What’s included in a broadband package?

Your broadband deal will usually include:

• The internet speeds that you are told you will get
• A router or hub is provided (some have a Wi-Fi guarantee)
• There are optional add-ons like Apple TV, antivirus programs, or a home phone
• There are rules about line rental, mostly with standard broadband or FTTC
• You get details about unlimited downloads, your connection type, and if there are any usage caps

Always read the expert reviews or the FAQs before you order. You can usually compare broadband choices that bundle services together. This can help you get a better value overall.

Price rises: What’s allowed?

From January 2025, all major broadband providers will have to show any price increases using pounds and pence. They can not just use CPI+3.9%, unless it is made very clear to people.

Ask your current provider if you will be getting any monthly price increases. This is often the best way to talk about the monthly price and try to move to a better deal.

How do different types of broadband affect your contract?

The connection type you pick will have an effect on both the speed and the price you pay. It can also change how long your contract is. Faster choices, like full fibre or superfast broadband, will usually ask for longer time agreements.

Grab the cheapest Broadband & Phone Deals

Make savings up to 44% & keep the operational cost lower!!!

Compare Now

What happens if I cancel early?

If you are still in your minimum term, you will usually have to pay:

• A charge that is the same as the last months left on your contract
• Or you may pay a lower amount, depending on what the provider says
• There can be extra fees if you need to return the equipment, or if you miss a router pick-up appointment

But, if you go to a new address and your provider is not able to give you service there, you can leave without paying a fee.

How to compare broadband contracts effectively

Use a postcode checker

Where you live can say what fibre broadband you can get. This is true for full fibre broadband and Virgin Media broadband. You should first use your postcode to check what is there for you. This helps you know if you can have the right broadband at your place.

Compare broadband side by side

Look for:

• The broadband speed is important. You need to think about both download and upload speeds when you choose.
• Look at what they claim the average speeds are and what you really get to use.
• Think about the monthly price for your broadband. Also, check how long you must keep the contract.
• Look out for any rules about leaving early and read any Wi-Fi guarantee offered.
• See what connection type you will have. Extras like a home phone, TV, or static IP may be there too.

Look at at least three deals before you choose one. Make sure to check how fast the broadband speed is by using a broadband speed test. You can also see what people say on social media about the provider. This will help you know if it is a good choice for you.

Consider your needs

Common broadband contract terms to know

• Line rental: You may still need to pay this on some old fibre broadband plans.
• Consumer Price Index (CPI): This can make annual price increases go up.
• Unlimited downloads: Be careful. Fair-use policies could limit how much you get.
• Connection type: FTTC, FTTP, or mobile will change speed and price.
• Contract end date: Remember when your deal ends. Changing at this time can help you save some money.
• Rolling contract: There is no tie-in, but your monthly bill is usually higher.

Knowing these words helps you compare broadband plans. You can find the ones that fit your online experience and your budget.

Correct as of 18 June 2025

FAQs about broadband contracts