Changing providers

Droopy61

My broadband and phone contract ends in the 2nd week of April. I'm with first utility now owned by shell energy. Do I have to officially terminate the contract with the provider or can I just switch now like I did with my gas and electricity?

iniltous

If switching/migrating using the correct process ( contacting the provider you want to use and leaving it to them , you don't contact your current provider ) the switch normally takes 10-14 days , the new provider serves your notice to the 'old' provider , so contacting a new provider and asking for them to provide your service should result in a migration taking place around the expiry of the minimum term with your current provider.
If the changeover takes place a little early or a little late shouldn't cost much in either a few days ETC or paying for a few days more with the old provider than absolutely necessary ( if you pay the whole month they refund the days after the changeover)
It may be possible to ask for a particular date , but ultimately it's Openreach that do the work

Paddoj

Plusnet tell me there is a cancellation fee unless the change is made on the last day of the contract!!

Neil_Jones

Paddoj wrote: »

Plusnet tell me there is a cancellation fee unless the change is made on the last day of the contract!!

This is correct - unlike switching gas or electricity, there is no "49 day switching window" on phone and broadband, so if you move elsewhere and it goes through too early, you are liable for cancellation fees.

Solution to this is easy: Find out when your contract ends, it takes about 14-17 days to switch, so work backwards.

wongataa

Paddoj wrote: »

Plusnet tell me there is a cancellation fee unless the change is made on the last day of the contract!!

The contract doesn't end. The minimum term ends and you will be eligible for fees for cancelling before the minimum term ends.