Mobile coverage

Mobile phone coverage in the UK, coverage has now reached a generally high standard in most areas.

But the strength of a mobile signal can vary depending on where you live and which provider you choose.

So, just because you enjoy a strong signal with your current provider doesn’t mean that a competitor will necessarily provide the same coverage.

Before you choose, or switch to, a mobile provider, it’s a good idea to check the coverage from each mobile network.

Postcode checkers

All operators have ‘postcode checkers’ – online tools that can give an indication of 2G (voice and text) and 3G (mobile broadband) coverage according to postcode.

You simply enter the postcodes of your home, office and anywhere else where you know you’ll depend on good coverage. The site should then give you a guide as to what you can expect.

Access the mobile coverage checkers

Maximise your coverage

Ofcom has a guide which explains the practical steps you can take to maximise your mobile coverage.

It gives advice on what you should do before you buy your phone, such as checking on what the policy is should you want to return the handset.

Some operators have a network guarantee which allows customers to return a phone under certain circumstances if they are unable to get a signal. However, this varies by operator and retail outlet.

There is also advice on how you can improve mobile coverage indoors.

Coverage inside buildings can be worse than outside because the building acts as a shield to mobile signals.

But there are two ways that can improve indoor coverage using a fixed broadband connection.

To learn more, download our guide [pdf].

Related areas:

Mobile mis-selling

Broadband mis-selling

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