Published: 20 August 2025

Prices are rising again. The Office for National Statistics has confirmed that UK CPI inflation increased to 3.8% in the 12 months to July, up from 3.6% in June. That is the highest rate since January 2024.

Behind the headline number sit some painful details. Air fares were the single biggest driver of last month’s rise, jumping 30.2% between June and July, a spike the statisticians say was likely influenced by the timing of school summer holidays. Food prices also rose for the fourth month in a row, with beef, chocolate, instant coffee and fresh orange juice among the items climbing fastest.

None of this is welcome news for household budgets. The good news is that there are still areas where you can take control. One of the quickest wins is your broadband bill. If you are out of contract, or coming up to renewal, switching to a sharper deal can put serious money back in your pocket.

Why broadband is a smart place to save

Broadband is a classic set‑and‑forget expense. Millions of people roll past their initial contract period and quietly drift onto higher standard rates, paying far more than they need to. Consumer champions have long pointed out that out‑of‑contract households can potentially save hundreds of pounds a year by switching or negotiating.

Switching is straightforward. Under Ofcom rules and guidance, your new provider will usually manage the process end to end, and Ofcom encourages customers to shop around using accredited comparison sites to find the best deal.

If you receive certain benefits, you may qualify for a social tariff. These are discounted broadband packages designed to keep people connected at a lower cost, and availability has expanded across the market. Awareness is still lower than it should be, so it is worth checking your eligibility.

How much could you save by switching?

At SearchSwitchSave we regularly see large gaps between out‑of‑contract prices and the best promotional rates available in the same postcode. Those differences can add up quickly over an 18 or 24 month term. Depending on your current price, your chosen speed, and any fees, you could save up to £400 off your contract value by switching.

Savings vary by provider, package, contract length and location. Always factor in any setup fees, early termination charges if you are still in contract, and any promotional credits or vouchers.

A quick plan to cut your broadband costs today

1. Check your contract status
   • If you are out of contract, you are likely overpaying. If you are within your minimum term, note the end date and any exit fees.
2. Right‑size your speed
   • Many homes do not need the fastest tier. Matching your speed to how you actually use the internet can unlock a cheaper plan without noticeable impact.
3. Search, compare, switch
   • Use a trusted comparison service to see the best prices and packages available at your address. Ofcom accredits several comparison sites and sets standards for transparency and completeness.
4. Check for social tariffs
   • If you receive Universal Credit, Pension Credit or certain other benefits, investigate social tariffs. These are often on 30‑day terms and can be significantly cheaper.
5. Watch the small print
   • Look for mid‑contract price rise clauses, any connection or delivery fees, and whether the advertised price is a time‑limited promotion. If you bundle TV or mobile with broadband, check the total cost rather than each element in isolation.

How SearchSwitchSave works

SearchSwitchSave is built to make saving simple.

1. Enter your postcode to see packages available where you live
2. Compare prices, speeds, contract lengths and any extras side by side
3. Switch online in minutes. Your new provider typically handles the handover so you do not have to.

Screenshot from the SearchSwitchSave.com widget – you can use this tool for free to find the best UK broadband deals here.

Because the market moves fast, our listings focus on current live offers from well‑known UK providers so you can see what is genuinely available now in your area.

Real‑world examples

Below are illustrative scenarios to show how the numbers can stack up.

• A household paying £48 per month out of contract for a mid‑tier fibre plan switches to a promotional £28 deal on a similar speed for 24 months. That is a headline saving of £480 over the term before fees.
• A light‑use household drops from a 500 Mbps plan at £42 to a 100 Mbps plan at £24 without noticing a difference in day‑to‑day browsing and streaming. That change alone trims £432 over 24 months.

Your results will differ, but the principle holds: right‑sizing your plan and switching smartly can cut costs fast.

Extra help if you are struggling

• Social tariffs: Cheaper broadband for eligible customers on certain benefits. Ask providers about names like Essential, Basics or Social Tariff.
• Affordability resources: Ofcom monitors communications affordability and publishes guidance and research that can help you understand your options and rights.
• Haggle if you prefer to stay: If you like your current provider, call them and ask for a retention deal. Many will match or come close to market rates, especially when you are out of contract.

Frequently asked questions

Is switching risky or complicated?
No. For most switches your new provider arranges everything, including the handover date. You should experience minimal downtime. Switch now here.

Will switching affect my credit score?
Broadband checks are usually soft searches. Always read the provider’s terms during checkout.

What if I need to keep my landline number?
Ask during sign‑up. Number porting is common but not universal, especially if you are moving between different network types.

Can I leave early if service is poor?
If you are not getting the speeds you were promised, Ofcom rules may allow you to leave without penalty. Check the provider’s complaint and speed guarantee policies. More information on this specific topic can be found here: www.ofcom.org.uk

The bottom line

Inflation at 3.8% is a reminder that every pound counts. While you cannot control air fares or food prices, you can take charge of bills like broadband. A few minutes of comparison and a simple switch could save you up to £400 over your next contract. Start your search now and keep more of your money for the things that matter. Office for National Statistics

Notes and sources

• UK CPI inflation 3.8% in the year to July 2025, highest since January 2024. Air fares up 30.2% month on month. Food inflation at 4.9% with notable rises in beef, chocolate, instant coffee and fresh orange juice. Source: ONS Consumer price inflation, July 2025. Office for National Statistics BBC: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c741wkngndqo
• Switching process and rights, including speed not met and switching made simple. Source: Ofcom guidance on switching broadband provider. www.ofcom.org.uk
• Use Ofcom accredited comparison sites to find deals. Source: Ofcom price comparison accreditation. www.ofcom.org.uk
• Social tariffs information and eligibility. Sources: Ofcom social tariffs hub and affordability research. www.ofcom.org.uk+1
• Out‑of‑contract customers can often save hundreds by switching or negotiating. Source: MoneySavingExpert broadband savings guidance. MoneySavingExpert.com

Important information about savings
“Up to £400” reflects the potential difference between typical out‑of‑contract prices and current promotional deals over a standard 18 to 24 month term. Actual savings depend on your location, chosen package, contract length and eligibility. Set‑up fees, early termination charges and mid‑contract price adjustments may apply. Always read the provider terms.

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