What Happens When Your Broadband Contract Ends (2026)

When your broadband contract ends, your service continues but you move to an out-of-contract or rolling monthly rate, which is almost always more expensive. Ofcom data shows that out-of-contract customers pay an average of £5 to £12 more per month than new customers. You are free to switch provider with no penalties, negotiate a new deal with your existing provider, or stay on the rolling rate. Providers must notify you when your contract is ending, giving you time to act.

What Changes When Your Contract Ends

When your minimum contract period ends, your broadband service does not stop. Instead, you automatically move to a rolling monthly contract at a higher price. BT typically increases prices by £5 to £8 per month for out-of-contract customers. Sky moves customers to a standard variable rate that can be £7 to £10 above their contract price. This out-of-contract rate reflects the fact that your introductory discount has expired. Your speed, data allowance, and service remain the same, only the price changes. Since 2020, Ofcom has required all providers to send an end-of-contract notification at least 10 to 40 days before your deal expires. This notification must include your current price, the new out-of-contract price, the best available deals from your provider, and a reminder that you can switch.

Your Options at End of Contract

You have three main options when your broadband contract ends. First, you can switch to a new provider using One Touch Switch, which takes around ten working days. This is often the best way to get a competitive price, as new customer deals are typically the cheapest. Second, you can renegotiate with your existing provider. Call their retentions team and ask for a new deal. Vodafone, BT, and most other providers offer loyal customer discounts that are better than the rolling rate, though rarely as cheap as new customer offers. Third, you can stay on the rolling monthly rate, which gives maximum flexibility with no commitment but costs more. Ofcom found that around 40% of broadband customers are currently out of contract, collectively overpaying by an estimated £500 million per year.

How to Get the Best Renewal Deal

Getting a good deal at contract end requires preparation. Start by checking what deals are available at your address from competing providers. Use a postcode comparison tool to see current prices and speeds. Armed with this information, call your existing provider and ask for their best retention offer. Virgin Media and Sky are particularly known for offering competitive retention deals to customers who threaten to leave. Be polite but firm, and mention specific competitor offers you have seen. If the first agent cannot offer a good deal, ask to speak to the cancellation or retention department. Many providers have target retention rates and are authorised to offer deeper discounts. If you are offered a deal, ask for it in writing before agreeing. Compare the total cost over the contract length, including any setup fees, to ensure it genuinely represents good value.

Avoiding the Out-of-Contract Trap

The easiest way to avoid overpaying is to set a reminder 30 days before your contract ends. When you receive the end-of-contract notification from your provider, treat it as your cue to start shopping around. Many providers now offer app notifications and email alerts as your end date approaches. Vodafone sends renewal offers directly through its app. BT provides a dedicated online renewal hub showing available packages. If you find switching too much hassle, at minimum call your provider and ask them to match a competitor price. Even a five-minute phone call can save you £60 to £120 per year. For complete hands-off protection, consider providers like Cuckoo or Zen Internet that offer fixed or transparent pricing without the annual renegotiation cycle.

Compare Broadband Deals at Your Address

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Frequently Asked Questions

Will my broadband stop when my contract ends?

No. Your service continues uninterrupted. You automatically move to a rolling monthly contract at a higher out-of-contract rate. You can leave at any time with 30 days notice and no penalties.

How much more will I pay out of contract?

On average, £5 to £12 more per month depending on your provider. BT and Sky typically have the largest jumps. Ofcom requires providers to tell you the exact new price in your end-of-contract notification.

Should I switch provider or renegotiate?

Switching to a new provider usually gets you the cheapest price. However, renegotiating avoids the hassle of changing equipment and potential downtime. Compare both options and choose whichever offers the best overall value for your needs.

When should I start looking for a new deal?

Start comparing deals 30 to 40 days before your contract ends. This gives you enough time to research options, negotiate with your provider, and arrange a switch if needed before your out-of-contract rate kicks in.

Related Guides

Broadband Out-of-Contract Rates · How to Negotiate a Broadband Deal · Best Broadband Deals · How to Switch Broadband

Methodology & Sources

Information in this guide is sourced from Ofcom market reports, Openreach coverage data, ISPreview.co.uk, provider websites and independent broadband research from Point Topic and Thinkbroadband. Prices and availability are checked monthly. Speed data reflects advertised average speeds from provider Key Facts documents.