Who hasn’t had the delight of their telecoms supplier dropping an inflation+ X% price rise on them at the anniversary? It may only be a few pounds more per month but it’s so annoying, however the time (and hassle) needed disputing it seems too much considering the actual £s additional cost. So it just sits on your monthly bill fermenting a general dissatisfaction with the supplier, month after month after month………If only it had been obvious when you signed the order. It is now.
No more surprise bill increases
Good news is that Ofcom has announced new rules to stop providers from sneaking in price rises linked to inflation, hidden in the Ts-&-Cs amidst 10 pages of the smallest print imaginable to man.
What’s changing?
From 17th January 2025, any price increases in contracts must be spelled out in actual pounds and pence upfront. No more vague inflation-linked hikes—providers must be completely transparent about the cost when you sign up. They also need to be clear about when any price changes will happen.
Why this is better
This rule gives customers certainty over their bills. Before, inflation-linked rises put all the risk on consumers, who had no control over how much they might end up paying. Now, you’ll know exactly how much you’re committing to from day one.
A fairer deal for customers
This move is part of Ofcom’s wider push to make the telecoms market fairer and more transparent.
But watch out.
Suppliers can ask customers to waive their new rights by signing an opt out document however I have already seen opt out paperwork that is decidedly ambiguous. My advice would be to never opt out.
Please note these rules apply if you are a consumer, sole trader, partnership, small business of 10 people or fewer or a not-for-profit organisation where clarity of charges is now compulsory.
Want to know more? Check out Ofcom’s news centre for further details.s provider is key to keeping communications safe.
