Can I keep my TV package when switching broadband providers?
There are many reasons you may decide to switch broadband providers – perhaps your deal has run out, your bandwidth isn’t fast enough for your needs, or you are moving house. Whatever the reason, it’s commonplace for broadband to be in a bundle with a TV package, so you may be wondering if you can keep your existing TV package if you wish to switch broadband providers. In this guide, we will answer that question alongside other common broadband contract questions.
Can I keep my TV package when switching broadband providers?
It’s important to check the terms and conditions of the provider you’re currently with, which should be able to tell you if it’s possible to keep your TV package even if you decide to switch broadband providers. In general, it’s possible to keep the TV package, but this will probably be under a new contract, which is likely to make the TV package more expensive than it was in the bundle.
Assuming you’re paying for both in a bundle, you may have to pay the exit fee to end the contract on the bundle and begin a new TV package. The exit fee can be expensive, so you may wish to stay with the current provider until the current contract ends before switching. When making the switch, you may be offered special deals on TV and broadband, either separately or as a package, so evaluate your options carefully before agreeing to anything.
You may be able to have a similar TV package with your new broadband provider, even if it’s not the exact same format as you’re used to. There is a chance that a lot of the same channels and features will remain with a different provider, so have a look and see if you can get a better deal by switching both TV and broadband.
What are the benefits of having a broadband and TV bundle?
A combined broadband and TV bundle is often cheaper than sourcing the two elements separately, as this is a brand’s way of encouraging you to use them for more services.
It’s also more convenient because you will only have to deal with one company for multiple services, which can make paying bills and solving potential issues more streamlined.
What are the downsides of having a broadband and TV bundle?
As this blog has shown, it can be harder to switch individual services if they are bundled together. Also, you may end up paying for services you don’t really need for the sake of convenience, such as a movie package in the TV deal. Before you make any decision, think about what services you really need and if it would be more cost-effective to get each separately, or just opt for one package.
How to switch broadband and TV together
If you decide to switch your whole bundle, the first step is to research which is the best broadband provider in your area that also offers a TV bundle that you like the look of. Then, call your current provider and tell them you want to switch – you may have to pay an exit fee if your minimum term contract is not up. You may need to arrange an installation date with your new provider, but the switch should be straightforward, and you shouldn’t be offline or without a TV for very long.