Bundling and switching

UK consumers could make considerable savings by taking some or all of their communications services from the same provider, Ofcom research has found.

It reveals that some consumers could make significant annual savings – in some cases as much as £140– if they took some or all of their phone, pay TV and broadband services from the same provider.

Taking more than one service from the same provider is known as ‘bundling’ and around 44 per cent of consumers now have bundled packages of communications services.

Bundling is convenient – you receive one monthly bill rather than several – and as our research show, it is often cheaper.

That’s because you generally pay less than if you bought individual services from different providers.

Bundled deals

But despite the attractions of bundled deals, they’re not the ideal solution for everyone.

You may be tied into a contract for longer than you want and the deals may not exactly match your needs.

Before opting for a bundle, assess how closely it matches your requirements.

For example, if one element is broadband, does the deal provide quick enough internet speed and is the download limit large enough?

Price comparison sites

Once you know this you’ll have a better idea whether it makes more sense to go for a bundle or buy your services separately.

If you’re curious about whether bundling can save you money, one of the best ways to research deals is to use a price comparison website that has been accredited by Ofcom.

Our scheme ensures that any accredited site provides prices that are accurate, comprehensive, up to date and accessible.

Currently six sites – Mobilife,  Broadband Choices, Simplifydigital, BillMonitor Homephonechoices.co.uk Cable.co.uk and Broadband.co.uk– have had their price comparison calculators accredited.

Rigorous audit

All three were put through a rigorous independent audit so that consumers can be confident they’re being offered the best information.

Once accredited, these companies can display the Ofcom Price Accreditation Scheme logo on their websites and in any publicity campaigns.

Watch our price comparison sites video

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