Millions could save over £100 a year on their broadband bills by making crucial check, watchdog warns

MILLIONS of Brits could slash over £100 a year from their broadband bills by making a crucial check, the watchdog has warned. Around 3.5million people have switched their landline or broadband provider over the last two years as the cost of living crisis affects households, new figures show. Regulator Ofcom said its research suggested that out-of-contract customers who have the same broadband, landline and pay-TV provider could save more than £100 a year by switching to a cheaper deal. One in three of these “triple play” customers were out of contract last year, its figures suggested. Sign up for the Money newsletter Thank you! If you’ve been with the same provider for years, it’s easy to miss if you’re out of contract. It means you could be paying above the odds for your broadband – but the good news is there are no fees to move if you’re no longer tied to a contract. An estimated 8.8million broadband customers are out of contract, according to previous Ofcom estimates. Some experts say you can save even more by making the switch – USwitch says its data shows the average household can save £395 a year by moving at the end of a contract. Ofcom brought in a new process two years ago whereby broadband customers who are changing providers only need to contact their new provider in order to switch. Since this “one touch” process was launched for landline and broadband customers, almost 3.5million people had taken advantage of it. Most read in Money Natalie Black, Ofcom’s group director for infrastructure and connectivity, said: “We know that many people feel worried about their bills creeping up, but with a few simple steps some customers could achieve big savings. “Our advice to everyone with a broadband, mobile, pay-TV or landline contract is to check whether you’re in or out of contract, compare the offers out there, and if right for you then switch and save. “All the advice you need is at ofcom.org.uk/onyourside.” Comment now