There are various broadband providers operating in Ireland including:
It’s a buyers market and if you want to switch, you can. The process is easy and fast, often being sorted nearly completely by your new broadband provider. There are a few reasons why you might decide to switch broadband providers.
You could have found another provider offers faster speeds at a lower speed. Or, perhaps your provider has announced changes to the prices for the package that you are using. It’s possible that you have also had issues with your current broadband provider. Some providers will be able to offer faster speeds and a more stable connection in rural areas.
Confused about how to switch broadband providers? We will walk you through the process on this article. It’s easier than you think to switch and get the best deal available on the market today.
Don’t Abandon Your Original Provider Without Saying Goodbye
If you are eager to switch broadband providers, do make sure that you contact your current provider and let them know. Be prepared for a hard haggle because a lot of broadband providers will do everything they can to keep you as a customer. You can often get prices and packages that you won’t find advertised from the business when you are in this position. Make sure you tell them why you are switching and they will see if they can fix your problem. However, if you stay, do make sure that they are matching what you can get from another provider.
What To Consider When Switching Providers
There are a few factors to consider before committing to another broadband provider. You need to know the minimum contract you can take on before being charged cancellation charges for leaving the service. You need to make sure that the broadband speed is enough for your needs. 5Mbps is the minimum download speed you need for basic internet usage. Consider the total cost you will pay per month and the small print. Remember after the initial contract period, you will typically find the cost will increase. There may also be setup fees and other costs built into a one-off starting payment. You also need to consider download limits. A download limit will restrict how much you can use the network without incurring additional costs.
What You’ll Need
Research the market and the packages offered by different providers. Once you find a contract that you like, contact the company. Make sure you have:
- A card to pay the first fixed cost
- The date your current contract is ending
- The date you want your new contract to begin
- Your bank details
- Information on the contract that you want
- Universal Account Numbe
This is the information a provider will request when you want to set up a new broadband service for your home or business. Be aware they may recommend a better deal or package that they think will suit your needs.
They will also check whether their service is available in your area. You should be informed the maximum potential download speeds and upload speeds in your area. This may not be the speeds that you have seen advertised.
Knowing the date when your current contract ends and when you want your new contract to begin will ensure you do not experience a gap in your service.
If you are switching a broadband service which requires a telephone line, you will need your Universal Account Number. This can be found on your phone bill.
Will You Be Charged For Switching?
This will depend on when you are switching. If you are switching in the middle of an existing contract, you will typically need to pay cancellation charges. The company can charge you the total you would be paying for the months that remain on your existing contract. That’s why the best time to switch is at the end of an existing contract.
Be aware that you do not have to switch if you are moving addresses. Many companies offer a free service to move your existing broadband service to a new address.
Changes You Need To Know
If you want to change your landline number, this is your chance. However, you can also typically keep your current landline number which is often more practical. If you are switching and moving to a new location, you may not be able to keep your current number.
You may also be switching to a different type of broadband connection. If that’s the case, you may find your property needs a new setup. This can include installations by an expert provided by the company. Most broadband providers also require you to use a router that they will send to you. The level of changes will depend on whether you are switching from one type of broadband to another. For instance, if you are switching from typical broadband to fibre, your home may require a new installation.
Can You Change Your Mind?
A 14 day cooling off period is required by law. This means that after you order your new contract, you have fourteen days to back out of it and cancel without incurring any penalty costs. You can cancel in a variety of ways from calling their helpline to using a live chat or even writing an email.
If they mention any penalty fees, politely remind the provider of the cooling off period.
Are You Paying By Direct Debit?
When you contact your current provider to cancel your existing service, you will agree on a date when your account will end. After this date passes, you can cancel your direct debit to ensure that no more payments leave your account. It is your responsibility to cancel your account once you choose to use another service. Failing to do so can result in you being charged for two different broadband services at the same time and will likely lead to delays in setting up your new contract.
