My contract has ended - should I stay or switch?

Almost always switch — or at least call your provider before your contract ends to negotiate. Once you're out of contract, you move onto your provider's standard out-of-contract rate, which is typically higher than the deal you signed up to. Staying without doing anything is usually the most expensive option.

Switching broadband is also significantly easier than it used to be. Since the One Touch Switching system launched, most moves between providers happen automatically — you sign up with the new provider and they handle the transfer. You don't need to cancel with your existing provider first, and in most cases you won't be without a connection.

Before you switch, it's worth calling your current provider. Retention teams often have access to deals that aren't publicly advertised, and if you're a long-standing customer, there's a reasonable chance they'll offer something to keep you. If the offer is good, take it. If not, switch.

Check what full fibre options are available at your address while you're at it — if you're still on part-fibre (FTTC), recontracting could be a good moment to upgrade.