How to Change Your Landline Provider in the UK?
You can change your landline provider by contacting the new provider and giving your details. They will handle the switch for you, set a transfer date, and move your line across. In most cases, you will not need to speak with your old provider.
Switching your landline is far easier today because providers use a simple process that reduces delays and avoids technical steps. You only need to check your contract status, confirm any early charges, and choose the service that suits your needs. Once this is done, the new provider guides everything from start to finish.
This guide explains each step in clear wording so you can move your line with confidence. You will learn what to prepare, how the switch works, rules for bundles, how long it takes, and what you should do after the move. The aim is to help users who want a simple path without stress or confusion.
20+ years in UK Telecom | Last updated: November 2025
What You Need Before Changing Your Landline Provider
You need to check your contract end date, any early charges, your current bundle details, and whether you rely on devices like care alarms or card machines.
- Check your contract status - Look at your latest bill or online account to see if your contract is still active. If the term has not ended, the provider may charge an early exit fee.
- Review early-charge policies: some providers charge a small fee if you leave early. Knowing this in advance helps you plan the switch with no confusion.
- Confirm if you have a bundle - If your landline is part of a broadband or TV bundle, switching may affect the whole package. It's important to know what is linked before making the change.
- Note your current landline number - The new provider will need your number to transfer the service across.
- Check for devices connected to your line - Care alarms, card machines, security alarms, lift phones, and door entry systems may depend on your landline. You may need advice from the new provider to keep these working smoothly.
These simple checks put you in a strong position before starting the switch.
When reviewing your bundle, it may help to look at our page on business VoIP phone systems,
which explains how modern phone services work without a fixed line.
How to Change Your Landline Provider (Quick Step-by-Step)
Contact your new provider, give your details, request the switch, receive your transfer date, and wait for the move to complete. You normally do not need to speak with your old provider.
Changing your landline provider is now a simple, guided process. Here is the clear path to follow:
Step 1 – Contact the new provider
Reach out to the provider you want to join. They will check your location, number, and service needs.
This is the only contact you need to start the switch.
Step 2 – Share your details and request the switch
Provide your name, address, landline number, and any bundle details. The new provider then creates a switch request on your behalf.
Step 3 – Receive your confirmed switch date
The new provider will share the expected activation date. Most moves only take a few working days.
Step 4 – Wait while the switch takes place
You do not need to take action during this stage. Your new provider manages everything in the background,
including communication with the old provider.
Step 5 – Check your final bill and equipment return
After the switch, your old provider will send a final bill. If you have any rented equipment, they may ask for it to be returned.
If you want a quick way to compare different setups, you can look at our guide on UK business VoIP services, which gives clear steps for choosing the right phone system.
Understanding One Touch Switch
One Touch Switch lets you change your landline provider by contacting only the new provider. They handle every step, including the service move and communication with your old provider.
One Touch Switch is a UK process designed to make switching faster and easier. It removes the need for long calls or complicated coordination.
How it works:
- You contact the new provider.
- They request your switch using your details.
- Both providers exchange information in the background.
- A transfer date is set.
- Your service moves without you chasing updates.
Who can use it:
Most home users and small businesses with traditional landlines or copper-based services.
Why it helps:
It avoids confusion, reduces delays, and keeps the process simple for people who do not want to deal with technical steps or multiple providers.
Switching When You Have Bundles
If your landline is part of a broadband or TV bundle, switching may affect the whole package. Some bundles move together, while others can be changed separately.
Many users do not have a landline on their own. It is often tied to broadband, TV, or a full package. Before switching, it helps to know how your current setup works.
Landline + Broadband Bundle
- Most providers link the phone line and the internet under the same account.
- When you move the landline, the broadband may also move or stop.
- The new provider will confirm whether both services need to switch together.
Landline + TV or Multi-Service Deals
- TV packages may rely on the same account as your landline.
- Switching only the landline can sometimes change discounts or contract terms.
- It is important to ask the new provider how the switch affects any TV deals.
Landline + Business Packages
Business bundles may include:
- Call routing
- Hunt groups
- Multiple lines
- Broadband
- Support agreements
Switching one part of a business bundle can affect the entire setup. Discuss your current services with the new provider so they can plan the move correctly.
If your bundle includes internet, you may also want to check our 5G business broadband page,
which provides stable backup for calls and online work.
Fees You May Need to Check Before Switching
You may face early charges, line rental fees, or small costs linked to contracts. Most switches are free, but it is still important to check your bill before moving.
Switching your landline is usually low-cost, but a few fees may apply depending on your current contract. A quick review can help you avoid any surprise amounts on your final bill.
Early Termination Charges
- If your contract has not ended, the provider may add a charge for leaving early.
- The amount depends on how many months are left.
- This is the most common fee for users who switch before the agreed term.
Line Rental Rules
- Some providers charge in advance for line rental.
- If you have already paid for the month, the provider may refund unused days.
Cooling-Off Period
After signing up with the new provider, you may have a short period where you can cancel without charges. This period varies, so it is worth confirming when you join.
Number Porting Fees (If Any)
- Most landline number moves are free.
- In rare cases, a provider may apply a small fee to port the number.
- The new provider will confirm this during the switch request.
How Long Does It Take to Change Your Landline Provider?
Changing your landline provider usually takes a few working days. Some moves take a little longer if you have bundles or extra services linked to your line.
Switching times can vary, but most landline transfers follow similar timelines. The new provider will share a clear activation date once your request is confirmed.
Typical timeframe:
- Standard landline switch: 3–7 working days
- Switch with bundles: 5–10 working days
- Switch with number porting or added checks: Up to 14 days
A small delay can happen if:
- Your old provider needs extra details
- There is an issue with your line records
- You use equipment that depends on the landline
- You have a business package with added services
In most cases, the service moves with little change to your day-to-day use. The new provider will confirm when the switch is complete.
Can You Keep Your Current Landline Number?
Yes, you can usually keep your landline number when switching providers. The new provider will move it across for you during the switch.
Most users want to keep their landline number, whether it is a long-held home number or the main line for a small business. In the UK, number transfer is widely supported across providers.
When you can keep your number:
- Your new provider supports number transfer
- Your number is active during the switch
- Your line is within the same area code
- Your current provider has no technical restrictions
When the number may not transfer:
- The number is linked to a closed account
- The line has been inactive for too long
- The number belongs to a service that does not support transfers
- You are moving to a location with a different area code
If the new provider notices any issues, they will let you know before the switch date.
Most cases move smoothly without any action needed from you.
If you are thinking about moving your number to a modern phone system, our guide on switching your landline number to VoIP explains the steps in simple wording.
If you want to keep your number with a modern system, our team can check your line and show you safe ways to move it.
Changing Landline Provider for Business Users
Businesses can switch landline providers by contacting the new provider and asking them to move the line. Before switching, review any linked services such as call routing, alarms, card machines, or broadband.
Business landlines often support more than simple calls. They may connect to payment devices, entry systems, care alarms, or a multi-line setup. A quick review helps your new provider plan the right switch without disruption.
Key Things Businesses Should Check
1. Check for linked devices
Many shops, clinics, offices, and hospitality sites use devices that depend on a stable phone line. Examples include:
- Card payment terminals
- Door entry systems
- Lift phones
- Security alarms
- Care alarms
Share this information with the new provider so they can prepare correctly.
2. Review your current call setup
Businesses may have:
- Hunt groups
- Divert settings
- Extra lines
- Day and night routing
These may need to be set again or adjusted after switching.
3. Check contract terms
Business contracts often run longer than home contracts. It helps to confirm early charges or notice periods before your move.
4. Confirm broadband links
Some business broadband lines include a built-in phone service. Switching one without the other may affect the full setup.
Many businesses look for stronger call control when switching. If you want clear calls, simple routing, and solid support, we can help you compare options.
When Businesses Should Consider VoIP Instead of Switching?
Some firms notice that a standard landline no longer supports their daily needs. VoIP can give:
- Better call control
- Simple routing
- Remote work support
- A low-cost way to handle more calls
If your current setup feels limited, your new VoIP provider can help you compare options for your team.
What to Do After You Switch?
After switching, check your new line, review your final bill, return any old equipment, and keep a record of your switch date.
Once your landline has moved to the new provider, a few small checks help you confirm that everything is working correctly.
- Test your new line - Make a quick call to confirm the line is active. If you kept your number, check that incoming and outgoing calls work as expected.
- Review the final bill from your old provider - Your old provider will send a final statement. This may include: any credit due, remaining line rental, early charges, or refunds for unused days. Keep this bill for your records.
- Return any equipment - If your old provider supplied a phone, router, or adapter, they may ask you to return it. Follow the instructions on the final bill or email.
- Check linked devices - If you use care alarms, card machines, entry systems, or alarm lines, test each device to make sure it works with the new line.
- Keep your switch confirmation email - This email includes your activation date, order reference, and contact details for support. It is useful in case you need help later.
If you want a stable phone line with clear calls and friendly support, our team can help you find the right plan.
When You Should Contact Your Old Provider Directly?
You only need to contact your old provider if you spot billing issues, equipment problems, or delays that your new provider cannot resolve.
Most landline switches do not require any contact with the old provider. The new provider manages the process for you.
However, there are a few situations where speaking with the old provider can help.
1. Billing questions
If the final bill shows an unexpected charge or a refund is missing, contact the old provider. They can explain the line rental, early charges, or extra fees.
2. Equipment returns
If you are unsure how to return a router, phone, or adapter, the old provider can confirm the correct steps.
3. Incorrect cancellation date
If you notice your old service remains active after the switch date, reach out to them to close the account.
4. Failed number transfer
In rare cases, a number may not move correctly. If the new provider cannot fix this alone, the old provider may need to check their records.
5. Fraud or security concerns
If you see unusual activity, such as unknown charges or suspicious account changes, contact the old provider immediately.
Common Problems When Changing Landline Providers
Most switches go smoothly, but delays, number issues, or billing mistakes can happen. These problems are usually easy to fix once the provider checks your details.
While switching is straightforward for most users, a few issues may appear during or after the move. Knowing these in advance helps you understand what to expect.
Switch Delayed
A delay can occur if your line records are incomplete or if your old provider needs extra checks. Most delays are short and resolved once both sides confirm details.
Number Failed to Transfer
If your number does not transfer correctly, you may receive calls on one line and outgoing calls on another. The new provider can raise a request to correct the number routing.
Wrong Activation Date
Sometimes the activation date may change due to system errors or technical issues. The new provider will share an updated date as soon as the change is confirmed.
Old Provider Billing Incorrectly
If the old provider continues billing after the switch or charges incorrect fees, contact them with your switch confirmation. They can adjust the final bill once they review the details.
If you want a smoother service that avoids these issues, we can show you simple phone solutions for your site.
Should You Switch Landline or Move to VoIP Instead?
Switching your landline is helpful if you want to stay with a standard phone service, but VoIP gives far more flexibility for homes and small businesses that need clearer calls and better control.
Switching providers works well for users who simply want a lower bill or better support from another landline service. This route keeps your setup mostly the same.
However, many people now choose VoIP because traditional landlines are being phased out. VoIP works through the internet and offers more useful features without raising costs.
When switching landline is fine:
- ⛔ You only want the same type of service
- ⛔ You prefer a classic phone line
- ⛔ Your current broadband is stable
- ⛔ You do not need extra call features
When VoIP may suit you better:
- ✅ You want clearer calls
- ✅ You want to keep your number under more control
- ✅ You run a small business or clinic
- ✅ You take calls in different rooms or locations
- ✅ You want simple upgrades without new wiring
See if VoIP gives you better value for your home or business. Our team can guide you with simple advice based on your current setup.
Conclusion
Switching your landline provider is straightforward once you choose the new provider and confirm your details. Most of the work is handled for you, so the process stays simple from start to finish.
Changing your landline provider does not need to feel difficult. The new provider manages the move, keeps you updated, and sets your switch date. A short check of your contract, bundle, and equipment prepares you for a smooth transfer.
Whether you want a new deal, better support, or clearer calls, switching gives you the chance to choose a service that fits your current needs. If you want to review both landline and VoIP options, our team can guide you with advice based on your setup.
FAQ About How to Change Landline Provider in UK
Can I change landline providers without losing my number?
Yes, you can keep your number in most cases.
Your new provider will move the number during the switch. The number must be active, within the same area code, and linked to an open account.
Do I need to cancel my old landline service?
No, the new provider cancels it for you.
Most UK switches follow a simple process where the new provider handles the entire move. You only contact the old provider if you see billing issues later.
Will I lose service during the switch?
Most users experience no downtime.
If a drop happens, it usually lasts a short time on the activation day. Your new provider will confirm this when giving your switch date.
Can I switch providers if I have a care alarm or entry system?
Yes, but you must check compatibility.
Devices such as care alarms, lift phones, and door entry systems may depend on the landline. Your new provider can guide you on any required checks.
Is switching landlines free?
Usually yes.
There is no cost for the switch itself. You may only pay early charges if your contract has not ended.
Do I need a PAC or STAC code to switch landlines?
No, those codes are for mobile numbers.
Landline switching does not use PAC or STAC codes. The new provider handles the transfer using your address and line details.
How do I switch if my line is part of a bundle?
You may need to move the full bundle.
If your landline is tied to broadband or TV, the whole package may switch together. Your new provider will confirm how your bundle works.
Can I switch landline provider while still in contract?
Yes, but early exit charges may apply.
Your contract may include a fee for leaving early. Check your bill or ask your provider before starting the switch.
What happens if my number fails to transfer?
Your new provider raises a fix request.
Number routing issues are uncommon. When they occur, providers work together to correct the issue.
Can I switch if my property no longer has a copper line?
Yes, but the new service may use digital lines.
Some areas no longer support copper lines due to network upgrades. Your provider will offer a digital or VoIP-based option if required.
Need help choosing the right landline or VoIP setup? Our UK team is here day and night, ready to guide you with clear, simple steps.
