UpMyStreet can make switching the best decision you make today, because we’re powered by uSwitch.com, the UK’s leading home services and personal finance comparison and switching service. Learn more.
Check the answers below to some of our most frequently asked questions (FAQ).
FAQ
- How can I choose the best supplier for me?
- Can I trust the advice?
- How quick and easy is it to switch suppliers?
- Is it free to switch suppliers?
- What’s in it for uSwitch?
- Which suppliers are available in my area?
- What’s the difference between direct and indirect cccess?
- What is an auto dialler?
- What is a prefix number?
- What is cable telephone?
- What is carrier pre selection?
How can I choose the best supplier for me?
Whether you want to save money on bills, are fed up with your existing supplier’s service, we can show you how your current supplier measures up. Compare my supplier
Can I trust the advice?
If you decide to switch supplier through us you’re certain of an impartial service.The information comes directly from suppliers and government regulators and is continually updated to ensure it’s comprehensive and accurate.
How quick and easy is it to switch suppliers?
Switching phone companies is very easy using our website and will only take a few minutes. Most suppliers are large, trusted companies and all of them are regulated to ensure standards of service.
Is it free to switch suppliers?
Yes, our service is free, and you're under no obligation to switch suppliers. We’ll give you all the information you need to make an informed decision about which supplier is best for you.
What’s in it for uSwitch?
uSwitch.com is funded by the small commissions they receive from phone suppliers when customers choose to switch online. These commercial relationships have no influence on the ranking of suppliers in the calculator. As UpMyStreet and uSwitch are independent of all phone suppliers, information is given on all suppliers not just those that pay commission.
Which suppliers are available in my area?
Your postcode decides which fixed line or cable suppliers are available to you. BT is available everywhere - except Hull, where Kingston Communications is the only direct access phone company. An alternative cable telephone service from either ntl or Telewest is now available in more than 50% of Great Britain.
What is the difference between direct and indirect access?
Direct access (or fixed line) phone companies have a physical telephone line connected to your home. You pay them for line rental, the cost of your calls and services you use. Indirect access companies, route your calls over their company’s network and you pay them for these calls. You continue to pay line rental to your direct access telephone company.
What is an auto dialler?
An auto dialler is a small adaptor that plugs into the socket of your existing telephone line and automatically routes your calls through the network of your new supplier. BT (or your cable company) will still own the line, charge for line rental and your number won't change. However, you'll get a separate bill for the cheaper calls from your new supplier.As long as the box is plugged in, all calls made on that socket will go through your new supplier. However, phone calls made from other phones in the home without an adapter will still be routed through your existing supplier.
What is a prefix number?
You dial a 4-digit code or a freephone number before each call, and are redirected through the network of your chosen supplier. BT (or your cable company) will still own the line, charge for line rental and your number will not change. However, you’ll get a separate bill for the cheaper calls from your new supplier.
What is cable telephone?
Cable telephone is provided by one of two UK cable companies (ntl and Telewest) and is available to about 50% households in Great Britain. Cable companies install a physical line into your home in the same way as BT. You also receive a basic package of digital TV channels as part of your deal, which can be upgraded once you're connected.
What is carrier pre-selection?
Carrier pre-selection involves giving permission for your calls to be routed through the network of your new supplier. BT will still own the line, charge for line rental and your number won’t change. You'll get a separate bill for the cheaper calls from your new supplier.
Carrier Pre Selection plans are available from telephone suppliers such as One.Tel, Telco, Equitalk and Tiscali.
