A little bit about Ofcom
The Office of Communications, most often referred to as Ofcom are by their own description, an ‘Independent regulator and competition authority for the UK communications industry.’ For the general public, they ensure that communication services are being run in a way which is fair for consumers. They can provide a wide range of help, including advice on whether you’re receiving what you’re paying for, advice on whether your complaints are legitimate and template letters to help ensure you communicate with your telephony providers effectively. They also provide easy to understand general advice on how to optimise your setup.
How do they help you?
Their role is to help the public as a whole, and as such they do not handle individual complaints. As a government approved body however, they are able to set rules, which companies operating in the UK must abide by in order to trade legally. The establishment of these rules holds the companies to account when they break any promises they may have made to the consumer, perhaps with regards to promised broadband speeds. Ofcom themselves, advise to use citizens advice for individual complaints.
As of the 25th February 2016, Ofcom have decreed that BT must open up its network to allow competitors to connect both businesses and homes to the public fibre network. This in theory, should mean more competition, and could mean lower prices as a result. A definite victory for the consumer!
Why are they important?
Imagine if your communications providers weren’t held to account by anyone for the promises they made? It could work fantastically, on its own, but likewise, could also descend into a chaotic mess, where customer service goes out of the window and you never get what you’re promised. Ofcom works as a safety net, there to make sure nothing goes awry.
Even though they don’t sort out small individual disputes on your behalf, the guides they provide give an easy to understand framework, so you can help yourself.
What if I want to switch broadband provider?
Ofcom advise on that too, there’s a few things to think about when you’re considering going with another provider, and this list is by no means exhaustive.
- Are you still in a fixed contract? And how long for?
- Exit charges - is there a break clause in your contract or will you have to pay up the full amount?
- Will you be tied into your new contract for a long period? This is often inconvenient for those who may be moving to a new house or flat
- A lot of broadband offers insist you take out line rental with the same provider as well, so bear this in mind as this information is often in the smallprint!
Speak to us
If you want to speak to one of our team about this feel free to get in contact, we’re got a friendly team who are always happy to assist, and respond to your queries. Give us a call or shoot us an email.
To check out Ofcom’s website click here