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Switching home phone provider
Even if you’re happy with your current home phone provider, you still might have a few concerns about the switching process. Home Phone Choices can help set your mind at rest.
How do I switch suppliers?
Switching is a simple three-step process:
1. Do your research by looking at the Home Phone Choices best buy tables and other information on this site. You should be able to find your perfect supplier quickly and easily if you know what you're looking for.
2. The supplier you choose will ask for some personal details, and you may want to set up a direct debit. Paying this way will usually save you some money on your bills.
3. The rest of the process will be carried out by your new supplier – they will even contact your old supplier and notify them of the change. You will receive a letter from your new supplier telling you when the switch will take place.
Do I have to use the phone differently when I’ve switched?
That depends on which method your new provider uses to re-route your calls through its network. Four methods are used in the UK:
Most providers use Carrier Pre-Selection (CPS): this means your calls are automatically redirected, and you don’t have to do anything differently at all. Just pick up the phone and dial as normal. The only things that will change are the cheaper bills.
Some providers use auto-diallers, which plug into your phone. Your provider will send you one before the switch date; just plug it in and use your phone as normal.
You might find a supplier that uses prefix dial numbers. With these, you are given a number to dial before your calls. If you forget, your call will go through BT and you will be charged BT’s rates for it.
If you choose a cable phone company, such as VirginMedia (formerly ntl:telewest), you will continue to use the phone in the normal way. The company will need to install a new cable phone line, so you’ll have to arrange for an engineer to visit your house.
When will the switch take place?
The switch should take place about four weeks after you compare tariffs and contact your new supplier. This includes a 14-day ‘cooling off’ period, in case you change your mind.
How do I find the best deal?
To find the best tariff to switch to, use the Home Phone Choices wizard. It offers a wide choice of providers, including Toucan, Tesco and TalkTalk, and lets you choose the right one according to the types of calls you make. It’s simple and free to use and you don’t have to enter into a long term contract with your supplier.
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