When it comes to your internet speeds, you know the term “up to,” right? Yeah, that’s a term not many consumers are a fan of because of the guesswork behind it. UK telecoms regulator Ofcom is not a fan of the term and claims either, so starting March 1st, 2019, it’s forcing ISPs to own up to their word and how they communicate speeds with potential customers.
ISPs have until March 1st, 2019, to prepare for the new rules set to go in effect. In the new rules, they will require ISPs to provide realistic speeds a customer can expect at their specific address at peak times, as well as a guaranteed minimum internet speed. That’s not all either. Should the speeds drop below the minimum, companies have 30 days to solve the problems or customers can walk away from their contracts without any early exit penalties.
Right now, there is already some level of protection for consumers. Customer are able to leave their contracts if broadband speeds don’t meet expectations, but there’s not limit on how long provides have to address the complaints. The new 30-day rule would prove to be much more effective when it comes to getting ISPs to resolve their issues. Since ISPs tend to offer other services like pay-TV packages and landlines, the customer exit option will cover everything. This, of course, wouldn’t be good for ISPs just because their broadband sucks.
