- Mid-contract price rises are increases that apply during a fixed-term contract, set out in the contract terms.
- Older contracts often linked rises to inflation plus a percentage, which could be hard to predict.
- Ofcom introduced new rules, in effect from early 2025, requiring in-contract price rises to be set out clearly upfront.
- Under the new rules, any in-contract price rise must be presented in pounds and pence at the point of sale.
- Some providers offer fixed-price contracts with no mid-contract rises, and certain changes can trigger a right to exit.
New Ofcom rules, in effect from early 2025, require any in-contract broadband price rise to be set out clearly in pounds and pence at the point of sale, replacing the older unpredictable inflation-linked approach.
Last reviewed: June 2026
What mid-contract price rises are
A mid-contract price rise is an increase to the price of a broadband service that applies during the fixed term of a contract, rather than only at renewal. Such rises are set out in the contract terms agreed at the start, but they can come as an unwelcome surprise to customers who expected a fixed price for the term. Mid-contract rises became a particular concern during periods of higher inflation, when increases were larger, prompting regulatory attention. Understanding how these rises work, and the new rules governing them, helps customers know what to expect and what protections they have.
The key development is a change in how these rises must be presented, introduced by Ofcom, which makes them clearer and more predictable for customers signing new contracts. This addresses a long-standing concern about unpredictable increases.
The old inflation-linked model
Under the older approach, many broadband contracts linked mid-contract price rises to inflation, often expressed as a measure of inflation plus a fixed percentage. This meant the size of the rise was not known when the contract was signed, because it depended on a future inflation figure. During periods of higher inflation, these rises could be substantial and hard to predict, which made it difficult for customers to know what they would end up paying. This unpredictability was a central criticism of the inflation-linked model, and it is the problem the new Ofcom rules are designed to address.
| Aspect | Old inflation-linked model | New Ofcom rules |
|---|---|---|
| How rises were set | Inflation plus a percentage | Stated in pounds and pence |
| Known at sign-up | Amount unknown | Amount known upfront |
| Predictability | Hard to predict | Clear and predictable |
| Applies to | Older contracts | New contracts under the rules |
The new Ofcom rules
Ofcom introduced new rules, in effect from early 2025, changing how in-contract price rises must be presented. Under the new rules, any in-contract price rise must be set out clearly in pounds and pence at the point of sale, so the customer knows the actual amount of any increase before agreeing to the contract. This replaces the older approach of linking rises to a future inflation figure, which left the amount unknown at sign-up. The change is designed to give customers clarity and predictability about any price rises, so they can make an informed decision when taking out a contract.
What the new rules mean for customers
For customers signing new contracts under the new rules, the practical effect is greater transparency. Instead of an unpredictable inflation-linked rise, any in-contract increase is stated as a specific amount in pounds and pence upfront, so the customer can see exactly what they might pay and factor it into their decision. This makes it easier to compare deals and to budget, removing the uncertainty of the old model. The rules apply to how rises are presented at the point of sale, so they shape new contracts entered into under them, giving customers clearer information than before.
Do the rules apply to existing contracts
A common question is whether the new rules apply to contracts taken out before they came into effect. The rules govern how in-contract price rises must be presented in new contracts entered into under them, so customers on older contracts may still be subject to the terms agreed at the time, including any inflation-linked rise provisions in those agreements. This means the benefit of the clearer pounds-and-pence approach applies primarily to new contracts. Customers on older contracts should check their own contract terms to understand what price rise provisions apply to them, as their position depends on what they agreed.
Fixed-price contracts
Some providers offer fixed-price contracts, where the price is guaranteed not to rise during the term, providing certainty for the customer. For those who value predictability and want to avoid any mid-contract increase, a fixed-price contract removes the issue entirely. The availability and terms of fixed-price deals vary between providers, so checking what is offered is worthwhile for customers who prioritise price certainty. A fixed-price contract is the clearest way to avoid mid-contract rises, offering complete predictability over the cost for the duration of the term.
The right to exit
Where a provider makes certain changes to a contract that are to the customer's detriment, a right to exit without penalty can apply. The detail depends on the nature of the change and the contract terms, but in general, if a provider increases the price in a way that the customer did not agree to as part of the contract in the manner the rules require, the customer may have the right to leave without an early termination charge. This protection is important, because it means customers are not locked into a contract whose terms have changed against them. Checking the contract and the notification of any change clarifies whether a right to exit applies.
Managing mid-contract price rises
In summary, mid-contract price rises are increases during a fixed term, and the new Ofcom rules, in effect from early 2025, require any such rise to be set out clearly in pounds and pence at the point of sale, replacing the older unpredictable inflation-linked model. This gives customers signing new contracts clearer information, while those on older contracts should check their terms. Fixed-price contracts avoid rises entirely, and certain detrimental changes can trigger a right to exit. Understanding these points helps customers anticipate and manage price rises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my broadband provider raise prices during my contract?
Yes, where the contract terms provide for it. Mid-contract price rises are increases during a fixed term, set out in the contract agreed at the start. Under the new Ofcom rules, in effect from early 2025, any in-contract rise in new contracts must be set out clearly in pounds and pence at the point of sale, rather than as an unpredictable inflation-linked amount.
What are the new Ofcom rules on mid-contract price rises?
Ofcom introduced new rules, in effect from early 2025, requiring any in-contract price rise to be set out clearly in pounds and pence at the point of sale, so the customer knows the actual amount before agreeing. This replaces the older approach of linking rises to a future inflation figure, which left the amount unknown at sign-up, giving customers more clarity.
Do the new rules apply to existing contracts?
The rules govern how in-contract price rises must be presented in new contracts entered into under them, so customers on older contracts may still be subject to the terms agreed at the time, including any inflation-linked provisions. Customers on older contracts should check their own contract terms to understand what price rise provisions apply to them.
What is my right to exit if my price goes up?
Where a provider makes certain changes to a customer's detriment, a right to exit without penalty can apply, depending on the nature of the change and the contract terms. In general, a price increase the customer did not agree to in the manner the rules require may allow leaving without an early termination charge. Checking the contract and the change notification clarifies whether it applies.
Which ISPs offer fixed-price contracts?
Some providers offer fixed-price contracts where the price is guaranteed not to rise during the term, providing certainty, though availability and terms vary between providers. For customers who value predictability and want to avoid any mid-contract increase, checking which providers offer fixed-price deals is worthwhile, as such a contract removes the issue of rises entirely.
How can I avoid mid-contract price rises?
The clearest way is a fixed-price contract, where the price is guaranteed not to rise during the term. Otherwise, the new Ofcom rules ensure any in-contract rise in new contracts is stated in pounds and pence upfront, so it can be factored into the decision. Checking the contract terms before signing shows what, if any, rises will apply.
