Uswitch comments on Ofcom's announcement for simpler broadband switching
Following today's announcement from Ofcom about plans for simpler broadband switching, Richard Neudegg, head of regulation at Uswitch.com, has issued the below comment.
Richard Neudegg, head of regulation at Uswitch.com, says: “This is another important stepping stone in helping the country upgrade to full fibre.
“Switching broadband can feel like a complicated process and can put some consumers off searching for a better deal, potentially costing them £90 a year[1] as they sit out of contract with their existing provider.
“Ofcom’s new ‘One Touch Switch’ plans will make switching more consistent regardless of provider, meaning a simpler and potentially faster experience for consumers.
“With the new process starting from April 2023, switching should become as easy as just contacting the provider you want to move to without needing to coordinate with your old company - something that customers moving between Openreach-based providers have enjoyed for some time.
“Under the new system it could be possible for some broadband switches to go live the next day, with providers forced to pay compensation if you are left without a connection for more than 24 hours. It's now vital providers turn their focus to implementation.
“This solution will help future-proof broadband switching and give consumers much-needed peace of mind when it comes to getting a better connection.
“Making things easier for consumers will become especially important in the future as more homes get access to gigabit-capable connections, from a wider range of infrastructure providers, so consumers can move to next-generation services with minimal fuss.”
-ENDS-
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About Uswitch
Uswitch is one of the UK’s top comparison websites for home services switching, including energy, broadband and mobiles.
More people go to Uswitch to switch their energy, broadband and mobile than any other site, and we have saved consumers over £2.7 billion off their bills since we launched in September 2000.
Free mobile app Utrack also helps households manage their home energy usage and make potential savings.
Uswitch is part of RVU, a group of online brands with a mission to empower consumers to make more confident home services, insurance and financial decisions.