Half of homes could switch to quicker, cheaper broadband

ONE in two households could switch to faster – and cheaper – broadband now, the industry watchdog said yesterday.

Ofcom revealed telling figures as it proposed new rules that would force internet providers to inform customers about their best deals.

A review of broadband pricing practices will also be launched, alongside a new consumer website, Boost Your Broadband, which offers information on local services and advice on how to find the best deal.

Ofcom said 94 per cent of UK homes and offices could now access superfast broadband, but less than half have taken it up and many were paying more than they needed to.

The regulator said the pricing practices review would focus on concerns that customers were paying more for similar – or worse – services, once introductory offers had expired. The new website has been backed by the Government and consumer body Which?, as well as TV presenter and campaigner Gloria Hunniford.

Ofcom head Sharon White said: “We’re concerned that many loyal broadband customers aren’t getting the best deal they could.”

The proposed new rules say internet firms and mobile, landline and pay-TV providers must alert customers about their best deals or tariffs when any discounted deal is ending, and every year after that if they do not change their deal.

The Boost Your Broadband site will ask users to enter their postcode, then tell them about different speeds available in their areas.

Richard Neudegg, head of regulation at uSwitch.com, said: “Consumers are getting very different outcomes from the broadband market – and in many cases this is simply due to a lack of awareness about the better services available to them.

“Millions of broadband customers are suffering from poor speeds and are stuck on old technology, when they could be upgrading to faster services and actually paying less.”

Mr Neudegg added: “The key news is that the regulator is planning to take forward refined proposals to force providers to give vital information to customers at the end of their contract, as well as those who are out of contract – and in some case have been for years.

“Historically, in telecoms, not enough has been done to put the power back into consumers’ hands.

“If customers are given the right tools, there is a real chance to improve households’ experience of services that are now critical in their day-to-day lives.”