How to Set Up Broadband When Moving House
Here's how to sort your broadband before moving day and avoid being stuck without internet.
Broadband is one of those things you don’t think about until you don’t have it. The good news is that with a bit of planning, you can be online from day one. Here’s what to do.
At a glance
- Setting up broadband in the UK typically takes between one and four weeks
- Switching providers is usually quicker than a brand new installation
- You should ideally arrange broadband two to four weeks before your move date
- If an engineer visit is needed, book it as early as possible to avoid delays
How long does it take to set up broadband?
The timeline varies depending on whether you’re switching providers or starting from scratch, and whether the property already has the right infrastructure in place.
| Situation | Typical timeframe |
|---|---|
| Switching providers (existing line) | 7 to 14 days |
| New installation, no engineer needed | 7 to 14 days |
| New installation, engineer required | Up to 4 weeks |
| Full fibre (FTTP) installation | Up to 4 weeks |
If you’re moving into a property that already has an active broadband connection, things tend to move faster. If the property needs new cabling or hasn’t had broadband before, expect it to take longer.
Steps to set up broadband in the UK
Planning ahead is key to avoiding delays. Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Check what’s available at your new address
Not every provider or broadband type is available everywhere. Before you commit to anything, enter your new postcode into a comparison site or your preferred provider’s website to check what’s on offer.
In most of the UK, you’ll have a choice between:
- Standard ADSL broadband: Slower, delivered over the phone line
- Superfast fibre (FTTC): Faster, available in most towns and cities
- Full fibre (FTTP): The fastest option, but not yet available everywhere
- Cable broadband: Available in some areas through providers like Virgin Media, which runs its own network
Availability can vary street by street, so always check before signing up.
Step 2: Choose a plan
Once you know what’s available, pick a plan that suits how you use the internet. A few things worth considering:
- Speed: Around 30 to 50Mbps is fine for general browsing and streaming. If you work from home, game online, or share the connection with several people, look for 100Mbps or above
- Contract length: Most contracts run for 18 to 24 months. Shorter contracts exist but tend to cost more monthly
- Data limits: Most home broadband plans are unlimited, but double-check before signing
- Bundles: Some providers offer TV and mobile packages alongside broadband, which can work out cheaper overall
Read reviews before committing. Speed on paper and reliability in practice are not always the same thing.
Step 3: Book your installation
Once you’ve chosen a provider, get your installation date booked as soon as possible. Engineer slots fill up, particularly around busy moving periods, and a two-week wait can easily become a four-week wait if you leave it too late.
If the property already has an active phone line or broadband connection, you may be able to self-install using a router sent by post. Your provider will let you know if that’s an option.
If an engineer visit is required, make sure someone is at the property during the appointment window. Clear the area around your phone socket or where the router will be installed to make the process quicker.
What to expect during setup
If an engineer is required, they’ll typically install or check physical lines. Make sure someone’s home during the appointment, and clear the area near your phone socket or router to streamline the process.
Some setups are self-installable. If that’s the case, your provider will send equipment, including a router and setup instructions. Follow these to connect your devices and test your new internet connection.
Remember: Activation dates are usually set in advance, so even after installation, you might need to wait a day or two for service to go live.
Switching providers when you move
If you’re moving and want to switch providers at the same time, the process has become significantly easier in recent years. Under the UK’s One Touch Switching system, your new provider handles most of the process on your behalf, including notifying your old one.
A few things to check before you switch:
- Exit fees: If you’re mid-contract, leaving early may come with a charge. Check your current contract before committing to a new one
- Start date: Try to time your new connection to start on or close to your move-in date to avoid a gap
- Equipment return: Most providers will ask you to return their router when you leave. Check how and when to do this to avoid being charged
If you’re switching away from Virgin Media, bear in mind that they run their own separate network. Moving to an Openreach-based provider may take longer, as it involves a full new installation rather than a simple transfer.
Costs to consider when setting up broadband
Costs vary by provider and plan, but here’s what to factor in:
- Monthly subscription: Typically between £25 and £60 per month depending on speed and provider
- Installation fee: Some providers charge for engineer visits or new line installation, though many waive this as part of a sign-up offer
- Router: Usually included, but not always. Check before signing up
- Exit fees: Can run to several months’ worth of remaining contract payments if you leave early
Always read the full contract before signing, and check what the price will be after any introductory offer period ends.
Getting settled in your new place
While you’re working through your moving checklist, sorting your contents insurance at your new address is one worth doing sooner rather than later. A few things worth knowing:
- Your tech needs to be covered from day one. Your router, laptop, TV, and other devices are all classed as contents, which means they’re covered against theft, fire, and water damage from the moment you move in. If you want protection against accidental damage too, that’s usually an add-on worth considering.
- Update your insurer when you move. If you already have contents insurance, let your provider know your new address as soon as possible. Moving without updating your policy could affect your cover, and any claim you make in the meantime could be rejected.
- Your router counts as contents. It might not be the first thing you think of, but if your broadband equipment is stolen in a break-in or damaged in a fire or flood, a good contents policy should cover it.
Lemonade offers straightforward contents insurance for renters, and updating your address or getting a new quote takes as little as 90 seconds.
Before we go
Setting up broadband in the UK doesn’t have to mean headaches. Whether you’re starting fresh or switching providers, a bit of planning can save you time and hassle. Don’t forget: having reliable internet not only makes your new house feel like home but also keeps you connected to work, mates, and everything in between.
Broadband setup FAQs
How soon should I arrange broadband before moving?
Ideally, at least two to four weeks before your move date. This gives you enough time to compare providers, sign up, and get an installation date booked without risking a gap. If you think an engineer visit might be needed, four weeks is a safer buffer. Engineer slots can fill up quickly, especially in busy periods.
Can I transfer my broadband contract to a new property?
Sometimes. Many providers will let you move your contract to a new address, which can save you paying exit fees or signing a new contract. It depends on whether your provider covers your new area and whether the same type of connection is available. Contact your current provider as soon as you know your new address and ask what your options are.
What is One Touch Switching and how does it work?
One Touch Switching is a process introduced in the UK to make changing broadband providers simpler. Rather than contacting your old provider yourself, your new provider manages the switch on your behalf once you sign up with them. This includes notifying your existing provider and coordinating the transfer of service. It reduces the risk of overlap or gaps in connection and means less admin on your end.
What if my broadband stops working shortly after installation?
Give it 24 hours first. Some connections take a little time to fully stabilise after going live. If the issue persists, contact your provider’s technical support. Most providers offer a fault resolution guarantee, and if the problem is with the line or equipment rather than your setup, they should send an engineer at no extra cost. Keep a note of when the problem started and what steps you have already tried, as this will speed up the support process.
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