How to move your broadband when moving house
Key takeaways
Plan your broadband move early to avoid downtime.
Check availability at your new address before you switch.
Moving house is a good time to compare deals and upgrade if needed.
Switching broadband provider
The good news is that switching broadband is now simpler than it used to be. Under Ofcom’s One Touch Switch rules, you usually only need to contact your new provider to start the switch, rather than dealing with both companies yourself. That makes moving home and changing provider at the same time much easier.
The easiest way to avoid losing internet access is to start early.
As soon as you know your moving date, check whether your current provider can serve your new address. If they can, you may be able to move your existing package across. If not, moving home can be a good opportunity to switch to a better broadband deal.
In most cases, your provider will ask for:
Your moving date
Your new address
Your account details
Whether the new property already has broadband installed
Some homes can be connected quickly, while others may need an engineer visit or a new installation.
When should I tell my provider I’m moving?
Tell your provider as early as possible, ideally at least two weeks before you move.
Booking early gives you a better chance of getting an installation slot that matches your move-in date and reduces the risk of being left without internet access.
If you are switching provider as part of the move, make sure the new broadband service is arranged before you leave your old property.
Do you just need to move your router when moving house?
Sometimes, yes.
If your new property already has a compatible broadband connection, you may only need to plug in your existing router. But if the property needs activating or installing, moving the router alone will not get you online.
Your provider will tell you whether:
You can use your current equipment
You need a new router
An engineer visit is required
The property already has the right connection type
Can I arrange my broadband connection before I move in?
Yes, and it is usually the best option.
Most providers let you arrange your broadband before you move into the property, which can help reduce downtime and make sure your connection is ready as soon as possible.
This is especially important if you:
Work from home
Rely on streaming services
Need internet access immediately after moving
How long does it take to set up broadband in a new home?
It depends on the provider and the property.
A home with an active broadband line may be connected quickly, while a property needing installation work can take longer.
Broadband moving timeline
When | What happens | What you need to do |
|---|---|---|
4-6 weeks before moving | Check broadband availability and compare deals | Decide whether to stay or switch |
2-4 weeks before moving | Book your broadband move or switch | Confirm moving dates and installation requirements |
1 week before moving | Final checks and engineer scheduling | Make sure the property is accessible |
Move day | Broadband transfer or activation begins | Keep your router and cables ready |
First few days after moving | Final setup or troubleshooting | Test the connection and contact support if needed |
Can I get temporary internet while I wait?
Yes.
If your broadband is delayed, temporary internet options can help keep you connected. These include:
Using your phone as a hotspot
4G or 5G home broadband
Mobile Wi-Fi devices
These are usually best used as short-term solutions until your main broadband service is live.
Moving home with major broadband providers
BT
BT recommends booking your move as early as possible. You may be able to keep your existing package and equipment, depending on the setup at the new address.
If the property already has a BT-compatible line, your service may be activated quickly. Some homes may need an engineer visit or installation work.
Before moving with BT
Check broadband availability at your new address
Confirm whether you can keep your current package
Ask whether installation fees apply
Keep your router and account details handy
Sky
Sky customers can arrange a home move online or through customer support.
If your new property already has the required setup, moving your broadband can be straightforward. If not, installation work may be needed before your service goes live.
Before moving with Sky
Check the new address supports Sky broadband
Arrange the move in advance
Confirm whether engineer installation is needed
TalkTalk
TalkTalk lets customers move an existing service or switch to a new package when moving home.
The provider will check whether your current broadband plan is available at the new address and explain what happens next if installation work is required.
Before moving with TalkTalk
Use TalkTalk’s moving-home support
Confirm your moving date early
Decide whether to keep or change your package
Virgin Media
Virgin Media customers should check coverage at the new address as early as possible, because not every property can access the Virgin Media network.
If your new home is covered, you may be able to self-install your equipment or arrange an engineer visit.
Before moving with Virgin Media
Check Virgin Media availability first
Confirm whether self-install is possible
Ask whether any moving fees apply
Changing broadband provider when moving home
Moving house is often a good time to compare broadband deals.
If you are out of contract, you can switch provider whenever you like. Even if you are still in contract, it may still be worth checking whether your current package is suitable for the new property.
Under One Touch Switch rules, your new provider usually handles the switching process for you, making it easier to move and change broadband provider at the same time.
Check fibre broadband availability at your new address
Not every property can access the same broadband speeds or technology.
Before you move, use a postcode checker to see:
Which providers are available
Whether full fibre broadband is supported
What speeds you can realistically expect
This can help you avoid paying for a package your new property cannot fully support.
Broadband provider comparison table
Provider | Installation / moving fee | Typical activation or switch timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
BT | Varies | Depends on property setup | Engineer visit may be required |
Sky | Varies | Depends on installation needs | Installation may be needed |
TalkTalk | Varies | Depends on property setup | Package changes available during move |
Virgin Media | Varies | Depends on network availability | Only available in covered areas |
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep my phone number when I move?
Often, yes, but it depends on your provider and where you are moving to. Check before arranging the move so you know whether your number can be transferred.
Can I take my equipment with me?
Usually, yes. Most providers expect you to take your router and equipment to the new address unless they tell you otherwise.
Will I have to change my broadband plan?
Possibly. Your new property may not support the same broadband technology or speeds available at your current home.
Can I upgrade my broadband when I move?
Yes. Moving home can be a good opportunity to switch to a faster package or compare better-value broadband deals.
Author
Alan Cairns
Senior Content Editor
Alan breaks down money, home, and energy topics into plain English to help you save money. Ask him about pound cost averaging or Balkonkraftwerk.
Reviewer
Ashton Berkhauer
General Manager • Commercial
Currently the General Manager for Home Services and Mortgages, Ashton observes the markets and, along with his team, strives to get the best possible solutions for consumers. The products within his...
