Setting Up Broadband in a New Home (UK Guide 2026)

When moving to a new home, check what broadband is available at the new address using a postcode checker. You can either transfer your existing broadband (most providers allow this) or use the move as an opportunity to switch to a better deal. Order at least 2–3 weeks before your move date to ensure installation is arranged in time. New-build homes may already have FTTP installed.

Broadband in New Build Properties

Since the 2022 Building Regulations update, all new-build homes in England must have gigabit-capable (FTTP) broadband infrastructure. The developer typically arranges for Openreach to pre-install fibre cabling during construction, meaning an ONT (Optical Network Terminal) box is already fitted when you collect the keys. However, having the physical fibre installed does not mean broadband is active — you still need to choose an ISP and place an order. Providers like BT, Sky, Plusnet and Vodafone all use the Openreach network, so most new builds have wide provider choice from day one. FTTP currently covers 82% of UK premises. Read our fibre broadband explained guide for more on FTTP vs FTTC.

How to Get Connected in a New Build

Order broadband 2–4 weeks before your move-in date. First, check which network operator serves your development — most use Openreach, but some estates are wired by CityFibre, Virgin Media or smaller alternative networks (altnets). Your developer's welcome pack should confirm this. If the Openreach network is in place, you can pick from dozens of ISPs including BT, Sky, Plusnet and Vodafone. On Virgin Media estates, you may be limited to Virgin's own packages. First-time FTTP activation on a new build is usually free and does not require an engineer visit — the router arrives by post and plugs straight into the pre-installed ONT. Compare broadband speeds at your new postcode to find the best value package.

Moving Home? How to Transfer Your Broadband

Contact your current provider 2–4 weeks before your move date. BT, Sky and most major ISPs offer a free home-move service that transfers your contract to the new address, though you may need to agree a new minimum term. Before committing, check coverage at the new postcode — if your provider cannot match the same speed, you can often exit without penalty. Moving house is also the perfect time to switch broadband provider and grab a new-customer deal, which is typically £5–£15/month cheaper than loyalty pricing. Since April 2023, Ofcom's One Touch Switch process means your new provider handles the entire switchover — you do not need to contact the old one. Browse the best broadband deals or read about switching notifications for more detail.

What If Your New Home Has No Broadband?

If you move into a property with no active phone line or fibre connection, start by checking Openreach's network coverage tool — it shows whether FTTP or FTTC is available at your address. If FTTP is listed, order through any Openreach-based ISP; an engineer will visit to connect the fibre and install an ONT box, usually within 1–2 weeks. If no fixed-line infrastructure exists, you have a legal right under Ofcom's Universal Service Obligation (USO) to request a connection delivering at least 10 Mbps download and 1 Mbps upload for a reasonable cost. As a short-term fix, 4G and 5G home broadband from Three, EE or Vodafone can deliver 30–300 Mbps with no installation wait. See our guide on common switching problems for troubleshooting delays.

Compare Broadband Deals at Your Address

Enter your postcode to see which providers and speeds are available at your home. Check your postcode now.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take my broadband to a new address?

Yes. Most UK broadband providers allow you to transfer your contract to a new address, provided they serve that location. Contact your provider at least 2 weeks before your move. If they cannot serve the new address, you can usually leave without an early termination fee.

How long does it take to get broadband installed?

If the new home already has an active line, broadband can be set up within a few days. If a new line or FTTP installation is needed, it may take 1–3 weeks. Engineer visits are typically required for FTTP installations in homes that haven't had fibre before.

Is it better to switch broadband when moving house?

Moving house is an ideal time to switch broadband, as you can take advantage of new customer deals. Compare available providers at your new postcode — you may find faster speeds or cheaper prices than your current plan.

Do new-build homes have fibre broadband?

Most new-build homes built since 2022 are required to have full fibre (FTTP) broadband installed under the UK government's Building Regulations. This means you will likely have access to gigabit speeds from day one.

Related Guides

How to Switch Broadband Provider in the UK · Best Broadband Deals in the UK · Fibre Broadband Explained: FTTP vs FTTC · Broadband Speeds Explained: What Speed Do I Need? · Switching Notification · Common Switching Problems

Methodology & Sources

Information in this guide is sourced from Ofcom market reports, Openreach coverage data, ISPreview.co.uk, provider websites and independent broadband research from Point Topic and Thinkbroadband. Prices and availability are checked monthly. Speed data reflects advertised average speeds from provider Key Facts documents.