Other BT Broadband - why shouldn't I?

Just left BT after my deal ran out. However they tried to charge me £65 for leaving! said it was in the T&C's, but after a few complaint emails I got that sorted.

Overall I have had no issues at all with the BT fibre and phone line I had, I don't even think i encountered one single problem, and the speeds were always very good.

Only changed provider to save money to be honest

 

Hm... they charged me £35. Why do I get the feeling that they pull a number out of the air that they think customer will pay?

 

Quick question for those changing providers everytime the deal runs out:

Is there any blank period you are left without internet?


I switch energy provider every year, always get the cheapest 1 year fix. The switching is always seamless, never had problems with the supply, the bill might take a few phone calls, but easy to sort out. Internet is a vital part of my household. I fear, unlike switch energy suppliers, switching ISP might left us without internet for a day or two. Are internet classed the same as energy supplier? How can I ensure no interruption to my service when I switch?

 

I have changed a few times over the years and never been left without any connection.

 

WYXXXXY! I've missed you man. We must have a Bit-tech BF reunion!

I can also answer you're question first hand as of yesterday:

My current PlusNet contract ends on the 31st May, but BT cannot activate the fibre until 8th June. PlusNet will simply put me on a rolling 1-month contract (at a slightly higher rate) until BT tell them to switch the service. PlusNet will then refund the difference (i.e. the remainder of the month).

Interestingly PlusNet will charge you £30 to "deactivate" your service at the end of your contract, but nothing to switch to another service - so it works out cheaper to pay them the rolling monthly amount regardless.

 

Thanks both. Sounds like more ad-hoc setup to ensure not without internet, rather than automatic systematic switching like energy or the bank account switch.


Fuss! yes, it's been a while, life moves on. I do miss the BFBC2 days.

 

Call them, threaten to cancel, see what rebates they offer to keep you, saves you the trouble of actually switching.

 

I work in the industry myself - I believe this will be due to Wholesale costs.
With a "migration" - i.e. switch to another provider, the losing provider is not charged for the termination of the service, as the new provider pays the activation/migration fee (which is around £30 for ADSL, a bit higher for FTTC).
With a "cease" - i.e. deactivation, there is a wholesale cost of around £30 to disconnect/deactivate the service. I don't believe they'll be making a profit on your for the de-activation costs.

Anfield is correct though - you're best calling to cancel and seeing about getting a decent retention deal. Service providers such as broadband suppliers will have set deals to hand to try and keep you.