Changing broadband providers can mean delays

A voluntary Code of Practice has been agreed by 16 of the biggest broadband providers, but does not cover high-speed net through cable.

At the moment, if a customer wants to change providers, it can be a complex, disruptive and lengthy process.

Recent competition between high speed net access providers has seen prices fall, making broadband more attractive.

The Code of Practice was developed by an industry working group and is self-regulatory. About 70% of high-speed net companies have already signed up to it.

"Whilst we all want our customers to stay, we believe there needs to be a proper and seamless process to allow customers to move, should they choose to do so," said Richard Sweet, chair of the working group.

'No strings'

Broadband continues to grow. The Office of National Statistics said 27% of UK net connections were broadband in June.

CODE SIGNATORIES AOL BT Bulldog Easynet InterViVo Networks LCC Communications Mailbox Internet Netplan Internet Solutions Nildram Spitfire Telefonica UK Thus Uniworld Communications Virgin.net VNL Wanadoo UK

Broadband analysts say it is currently a "gold rush" for consumers, with competition giving more choice and cheaper deals.

From Tuesday, anyone wishing to swap broadband companies can ask their existing provider for an authority code.

They then give their new provider the code to prove that they are permitted to swap, with "no strings attached".

The new net provider then arranges with BT Wholesale, who controls the broadband line, for services to be transferred with minimal disruption.