Why Broadband Price Rises Are Skyrocketing (Not ours!)

Here’s a number to chew on: broadband prices jumped by up to 8.8% in 2024. And no, that’s not a typo. Across the UK, millions of households were hit with in-contract price hikes that left wallets feeling lighter and frustration running high. The culprit? Providers tying their prices to inflation, plus a sneaky little margin on top. If you’re feeling the pinch, you’re not alone. 

But it doesn’t have to be this way.

At Grain Broadband, we never increase your bill mid-contract. In fact, when you sign up before the 21st of February, you can freeze prices ’til 2027. Check your postcode to see if you’re eligible for our Price Freeze.

What’s behind the price surge?

Let’s break it down. Most big broadband players link their contracts to inflation rates, usually using the Consumer Price Index (CPI) or Retail Price Index (RPI). On top of this, they slap on an “extra”—often 3-4%. If inflation rises, your bill skyrockets. It’s as simple (and unfair) as that. 

Ofcom, the UK’s telecom regulator, recently stepped in to ban inflation-based price hikes in contracts. However, not all providers have embraced the spirit of this change. Providers such as BT, Plusnet, EE, Vodafone, and TalkTalk have implemented fixed price increases of £3 per month, while Virgin Media’s rise is slightly higher at £3.50 per month. Find out more about broadband price rises.

How Grain is changing the game

Let’s face it: broadband is an essential utility. You shouldn’t have to worry about your internet bill creeping up while you’re just trying to stream a movie or join a work meeting. That’s why Grain broadband does things differently: 

• Fixed prices ’til 2027 – Lock in your package and enjoy the same monthly price for the full 24-month contract—simple. No sneaky terms. No surprises. 
• No in-contract price rises – Unlike some providers, we don’t believe in changing the rules halfway through. What you sign up for is what you get.
• Affordable packages for every need – From casual browsing to data-heavy households, our packages start at just £17.99 per month. All with symmetrical speeds and no hidden fees.
• Price Match Guarantee – We doubt it’ll happen but if you find a better deal on an equivalent package from another provider, we’ll match it. No ifs, no buts. 

How to protect yourself from price rises

Not ready to switch yet? Here are a few tips to guard against soaring bills:

• Read the fine print – Before signing any new contract, look for clauses about price increases. If they’re there, ask questions.
• Check your renewal date – Some providers quietly roll customers onto expensive standard rates once introductory offers end. Mark your calendar and shop around when the time comes.
• Keep an eye on your bill – Price rises don’t always come with flashy announcements. Review your monthly bill to ensure there are no unexpected changes.
• Shop smart – If your provider won’t budge, look elsewhere. With no in-contract price rises, and hassle-free automatic switching available with Grain, there’s never been a better time to switch. 

Curious about locking in a price freeze deal?

• Check your postcode today and see how much you could save on a Full Fibre broadband deal. Because, while other providers are busy rewriting their contracts, we’re standing by ours. That’s a promise.

Source: USwitch