New flat - How do I find best Broadband?

Frances63

I've just bought a new flat and am wondering how to go about getting internet access.

I really don't need a landline for calls as I use my mobile for everything these days, but I believe there's no way to have broadband without a landline. Or no cheaper way.

I have checked and there is no Virgin cable in my area, (I had this in my last home and have been happy with it). Is there a way to find out which broadband provider works best/has the best coverage in my new village (it's a bit out of town). Is there a postcode check?

Also, do I need to know which phone/broadband provider the last resident used? Or can I just change from their phone provider to a new one from scratch.

Lastly, how long should I expect it to take to get connected up and online again.

Sorry for so many questions, I really don't know where to start. Any advice is much appreciated.

forgotmyname

You can have Virgin BB without a phone.

But anyone else requires a BT line to get BB.

You can choose whoever you want. How long depends on what the previous occupants used.

If they had fibre and you only want ADSL or the other way around then a new faceplace may need to be fitted.

Do you have their phone number?

samknows.com

macman

Start with an exchange search on www.samknows.com for your available LU providers. Correct, no ADSL broadband without a landline unless VM cable is available, which it isn't.
You'll need the existing BT-based line reconnecting, which costs up to £130, though cheaper deals are available.

Cisco001

1. connect landline, then get BB
2. Good reception of three mobile. 3G/ 4G mobile phone with the one plan. Get internet by tenthering.
3. mifi, if you are not high usage.

Frances63

Thanks everyone, I've decided to have the landline reactivated & go for Broadband. I'm lookind at Plusnet who currently have a £2.75 unlimited broadband deal (with £14.50 line rental) but they have a connection charge of £49.99.
Connection is free with EE (they say "as there is an existing line") and aslo free with BT, Sky, Primus & O2.
Is there any reason why Plusnet charge and the others don't? Or do they not realise there is an existing line perhaps?

macman

An existing line reconnection costs PN the same from BT as a new line provision-BT OR don't distinguish between the two in terms of cost.
The others are choosing to absorb the cost, PN are not. Everthing is negotiable, it depends what the total package is worth to them.

Frances63

Thanks Macman. That explains it.

I'm still working ourt all the variables, it might actually be worth me going with the more expensive BT, (no re-activation charge), then changing to Plusnet after the end of the 12 month BTcontract as I will then have a phone number, so no re-activation needed at that stage (presumably?).

Frances63

Update: BT too expensive.

Went with EE at £2.50 B/B (unlimited) & £14.75 landline rental per month. No set up charges at all. 12 month contract. (Price goes up after 12 months - so I will change to Plusnet then).

Also expecting £100 cashback from Quidco! Expected to be paid on January 2nd.

All in all a very cheap deal, though I have not read great things about EE's broadband service on here. Will have to wait and see how it goes...

macman

EE is just a resold BT Wholesale product, with all that implies.

Frances63

Thanks Macman, that's got me concerned, so a resold BT wholesale product is a bad thing? What should I expect? BT are a fair bit more expensive.

I am already having problems with EE unfortunately. They have sent me a confirmation email saying I'm on a 20gb download limit (& more expensive!) deal! I registered for the unlimited deal @ £2.50 per month.

I've called and been 're-assured' (not) that I am definitely on the unlimited deal but their confirmation emails are incorrect and they can't change this mistake (why not?).

Following this I've just received a second 'welcome' email with details of the wrong (20gb) plan AGAIN. One mistake is one thing, but every time?

I've just called and all they can do is insist I am definitely on the unlimited deal; but I simply want this in writing.

Am I going to be having a battle to get anything over 20gb usage off my bill every month?!

I have had the wrong contract twice. It's a contract !!!!!! & they can't be bothered to get it right. I'm so tempted to cancel now.

It doesn't instill any confidence. Why can't they get this right? What a poor show. It should be so simple.
.

Frances63

Have now been billed (twice it turns out) for £19.75 per month. It's supposed to be £2.50 per month (with the line rental paid upfront for a year).

I am sick to death of this vile company. I don't recommend anyone to go with them, they can't get anything right. You will spend forever on the phone being fobbed off, but they'll take the wrong amount of your money anyway.

It's a big con. I'm fuming.

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