In the past, if your broadband speed was slower than your provider’s advertised speed, there was not much you could do. However, this is about to change in the UK as Ofcom has announced new rules for broadband providers.
Under the new Ofcom rules, you can now break your broadband contract if the speeds you are getting are below what your provider is advertising.
New Code of Practice for Broadband Providers
Ofcom has published a new code of practice for broadband providers, and this covers providers like BT, EE, KC in Hull, Plusnet, Sky, TalkTalk, and Virgin Media. This new code of practice is designed to ensure that customers receive the broadband speeds they are promised when they sign up for a service. If the speeds fall below acceptable levels, customers now have the right to exit their contract without facing any penalties.
These include a strengthened Code of Practice on broadband speeds, allowing customers to exit a contract should speeds fall below acceptable levels; and new processes to make switching broadband and landline providers easier. Ofcom also plans to make it easier for consumers to change mobile providers.
Implications for Consumers and Providers
This new regulation is a significant step forward for consumer rights in the UK. It means that broadband providers will need to be more transparent about the speeds they can realistically deliver. For consumers, this means greater confidence in the services they are paying for and the ability to hold providers accountable if they do not meet their advertised speeds.
For example, if you are paying for a 100 Mbps service but consistently receive speeds below 50 Mbps, you now have the right to terminate your contract and switch to a different provider without incurring any exit fees. This puts pressure on providers to improve their infrastructure and service quality to retain customers.
Additionally, Ofcom’s new rules include measures to make switching broadband and landline providers easier. This is particularly important as it reduces the hassle and potential downtime associated with changing providers, making it a more attractive option for consumers who are dissatisfied with their current service.
Ofcom also plans to make it easier for consumers to change mobile providers. This is part of a broader effort to enhance consumer rights and ensure that customers are not locked into subpar services.
You can find out more details about these new broadband rules in the UK over at Ofcom at the link below.
Source, Engadget
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
