Phone and internet: the 4 clauses to check
Phone and broadband offers are often promotions: the price changes after a few months and leaving can cost money. Here’s what to look for.
Time-limited promotional price
The big price applies to the first months; then the full price kicks in.
How it’s usually writtenThe promotional fee of €19.90 a month applies for the first 12 months; afterwards the standard fee of €29.90 applies.
What to do: Work out the cost over two years, not the first month.
Disconnection costs
If you leave, you may be charged for closing the line.
How it’s usually writtenOn termination a disconnection charge of €29 applies.
What to do: Check the exact amount: it should be stated in the contract and reflect real costs.
Router or phone instalments
If you leave early, the remaining device instalments may become due all at once.
How it’s usually writtenOn early termination, the remaining router instalments will be charged in a single payment.
What to do: Ask whether you can keep paying the instalments as before, or return the device.
Changes to the terms
The provider can change the price or terms during the contract, with notice.
How it’s usually writtenThe provider may change the charges with 30 days’ notice.
What to do: If the terms change, you can usually leave without a fee within the period stated in the notice: don’t let it pass.
Before you sign, ask yourself
- How much do I pay in total over the first 24 months?
- How much does leaving cost after six months, device included?
- How will I be told if the price changes, and by when can I leave?
The rules
Across the EU, telecom contracts can bind consumers for at most 24 months, and a change to the terms that isn’t to your benefit generally lets you leave without charge. National rules add further protections.
General information, not legal advice. For an important contract, have a professional read it.