There’s so much to remember when moving house. Getting moved in and switching the lights on are probably your first priorities… but what’s next? For most of us, establishing a reliable internet connection will be near the top of the list.
Unfortunately, setting up broadband isn’t always straightforward. From navigating coverage areas, selecting the right package, and then waiting for an installation, there are many factors to sort out before you can get connected.
Whether you work from home or simply rely on the internet for entertainment and communication, the last thing you want is to be disconnected from the digital world when you get to your new place.
To avoid feeling overwhelmed, it’s best to prioritise broadband setup as part of your move so you can prevent any digital disasters on moving day. In this guide, we’ll run through the broadband setup process and share helpful tips for simplifying it with the assistance of One Utility Bill.
For most people, reliable broadband is a non-negotiable, so it’s surprising that many wait until they’ve moved into their new home before starting the connection process.
In fact, setting up broadband can actually be very time-consuming, especially if your new property requires an engineer visit. You can speed up the process by being organised ahead of the move.
Firstly, you will need the following information:
Next, you need to decide whether you intend to stay with your current provider or switch. This will depend on a number of factors, including:
Image: Ofcom broadband availability checker tool.
As a first-time buyer, you might already have a broadband provider if you’re moving from rented accommodation. In that case, you can follow all of the above steps. However, if this is your first time setting up broadband, then here are a few factors to consider:
🛍️ Shop around: You have the benefit of no termination fees, so take a look at all broadband providers supplying your area and choose the best option.
💰 Build a budget: Running a household can be expensive, so taking the time to create a budget can help you determine what you can afford. This will stand you in good stead when it comes to choosing suppliers, as you won’t risk signing up for a contract you can’t afford.
💪 Create a bills package: Broadband isn’t the only utility you need to set up as a first-time buyer, so simplify the process with One Utility Bill. Pay for your gas, electricity, broadband, and even TV licence with a single monthly payment.
Most of the above is relevant to tenants as well as homebuyers, but there are a few extra considerations:
👀 Be clear on who pays the utilities: Tenants are typically responsible for organising their own utilities, but in some cases, such as HMOs and student accommodation, landlords will include utility costs in the rent. If the latter is true, then you won’t have control over your supplier or package.
🤝 Get permission for any structural work: An engineer may need to visit the property to install your broadband. Ensure your landlord has approved any changes to the property before you give the supplier the go-ahead.
It’s time to explore your options for getting online in your new home. There are two ways to set up your broadband:
If you’re moving to a new place, you may want to consider transferring your broadband services to the new address. This only works if your provider serves your new address. You can find that out with the Ofcom postcode checker, or contact your broadband supplier directly.
If the provider does cover your area, you’ll need to inform them of your intention to transfer. Depending on your contract, there may be administrative fees.
Even if your current supplier serves the new property, you may need to book an engineer visit to complete the setup. So, be sure to give them as much notice as possible, as the average wait time for broadband installation is 2-3 weeks, sometimes more!
If your current speed or package is not available at the new address, then you’ll have to switch.
Switching can also unlock better deals, including access to faster speeds and even free gifts. Once you know which suppliers provide your area (check the Ofcom tool), you can start comparing deals. Factors to consider are:
It’s important to sign up with a new provider early enough to avoid long waitlists, but also not pay for internet before you actually move in. Inform the supplier of your intended move date, and book an installation as close to that as possible.
If you’re moving from elsewhere, then you will need to give your old provider adequate notice.
Cancelling partway through a contract? You may need to pay a cancellation fee. Information about notice periods and fees can be found in your contract.
Setting up broadband is one of the many tasks on your to-do list when moving house. Reduce the hassle with One Utility Bill’s bill management service.
Create your own bills package to combine your choice of utilities, including gas, electricity, water, broadband, and TV Licence – all in one simple monthly bill. The team will handle the setup for you, and act as a single point of contact.
Learn more about this in our full guide to setting up your utilities.
Once you’ve decided on the right approach for you, follow these steps to get connected in your new place:
Step 1: Contact your chosen provider (current or new):
Step 2: Schedule the installation:
Step 3: Equipment management:
Step 4: Activation day:
You know all about the installation process, but we’ve still got a few quick tips to help you ensure the setup is as easy as possible:
Do your research: Check broadband availability and typical speeds at your new address before signing any contracts. Browse online forums and ask around to get reviews of real user experiences.
Understand the tech: You don’t have to be a genius, but it helps to know the difference between ADSL, fibre (FTTC/FTTP) and cable. You can find this information on your supplier’s website.
Optimise your new setup: Position your router in an elevated position, unobstructed by walls and doors. Routers can usually still send a signal to the whole of your home, but if you’re having connectivity problems in some rooms, then speak to your supplier about compatible WiFi extenders.
Read the fine print: This is particularly important for new contracts. Ensure you are fully aware of what you’ve signed up for, e.g., avoid a 12-month contract if your tenancy is only 6 months long.
Plan for overlap: If your budget and circumstances allow, having a short overlap where broadband is active at both old and new addresses can reduce stress and keep you connected throughout the move.
Setting up broadband when moving house can feel like a hassle, but with the correct planning, it doesn’t have to be.
From checking coverage at your new address and comparing providers to arranging installation dates and engineer visits, each step helps ensure a smooth connection in your new home.
Whether you're renting or buying, combining your utilities into one easy monthly package can reduce the hassle and help your budget in your new home. Speak to the One Utility Bill team to get a quote in under three minutes.