You’d be forgiven for thinking your broadband price is locked in once you sign up. Most of us assume it is. In reality, many broadband contracts now include annual price rises written into the terms, meaning your bill can increase even during a fixed period.
Once introductory deals expire, costs can climb even further. That’s why two neighbours on the same street can end up paying very different amounts for similar speeds.
The difference can be significant. A package that began at £28 a month might rise to £32 after an annual increase, then jump to £40 or more once the initial deal ends. Over a year or two, for an average Blue Light Card member trying to make ends meet, that extra cost quickly adds up.
Without keeping an eye on your contract dates, it’s easy to roll onto a more expensive tariff without realising.
But fear not! Understanding how broadband pricing works will helps you spot the right moment to act. Here’s what to look out for, how to know when it’s time to switch… and how your Blue Light Card can unlock extra rewards when you do.
Many broadband contracts now include automatic annual price rises written into the terms from the start, meaning your monthly bill can increase even during a fixed period. These increases are typically applied in the spring. Since January 2025, providers can no longer use inflation-linked percentage rises in new contracts. Instead, any mid-contract increase must be clearly stated in pounds and pence at the point of sale. If you signed your contract before that date, you may still be on an older inflation-linked structure.
That means even if you’re still within your agreed contract period, your monthly bill can go up, usually by a fixed amount each year (for example, £2–£4 per month).
Unfortunately, if you’re still within your minimum term, you usually can’t switch without paying an early termination fee. However, knowing when that annual increase is applied helps you plan ahead. If your contract is due to end shortly after a price rise, that can be a useful moment to review your options and consider switching to a provider offering a fixed-rate deal.
Most broadband packages are sold at a discounted rate for a fixed period, typically 18 or 24 months. During that time, you pay a promotional price designed to attract new customers.
Once that period ends, however, the price usually reverts to a higher ‘standard’ rate, unless you actively renegotiate or switch.
This is often where the most noticeable increase happens. A deal that began at £28 per month could move to £40 or more once the introductory rate expires. Over a year, that difference alone can add up to well over £100.
Providers must send an end-of-contract notification between 10 and 40 days before your minimum term ends. Even so, it’s easy to overlook that reminder and roll onto a higher tariff without taking action.
Before doing anything else, find out:
If you’re already out of contract, you can usually switch without penalty. If your deal ends in the next 30 to 60 days, this is typically the right time to start reviewing your options, so you don’t roll onto a higher standard tariff.
If you’re mid-contract, switching may involve exit fees. In that case, it’s worth checking whether the potential savings would outweigh the cost.
If you’re free to switch – or nearly there – the simplest next step is to compare what’s currently available in your area.
Even a £10 monthly difference can mean £120 saved over a year. In many cases, switching between providers that use the same network (for example, Openreach-based services) is straightforward. Ofcom’s ‘One Touch Switch’ process has also made moving provider easier in most situations. Switching between different infrastructure types, such as from older copper broadband to a full fibre alternative network, may involve an installation visit and brief downtime.
Broadband Genie allows you to check deals available at your postcode, filter by speed and contract length, and compare total monthly costs side by side.
Blue Light Card members can also unlock up to £180 in rewards when switching through Broadband Genie, including a £30 gift card on selected packages. So it’s not just about lowering your monthly bill. You could be rewarded for making the change while locking in a better deal for the year ahead.
If you choose to switch broadband via Broadband Genie, Blue Light Card may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Why has my broadband bill gone up this year?
Most providers now include annual price increases written into contracts, often linked to inflation, which means your bill can rise even during a fixed term.
Can I switch broadband mid-contract?
You can, but you may need to pay an early termination fee. It’s usually easier to switch once your minimum term ends.
How do I know if I’m out of contract?
Check your original contract length and any renewal notices from your provider. If your minimum term has ended, you’re typically free to switch.
