How to Switch from BT to Community Fibre

Thinking of switching from BT to Community Fibre? Moving from BT’s copper-based broadband to Community Fibre’s full-fibre service means a different installation process and new equipment. Here’s what you need to know for a smooth switch.

Before you switch

First, check your BT contract end date. If you are still within your minimum term, BT may charge an early termination fee, which varies depending on how many months remain and your monthly bill. Review your BT contract or contact BT customer service to confirm any exit fees.

Consider any services you might lose by leaving BT, such as a BT email address, bundled TV, or landline services. If you use a BT email address, ask BT whether you can keep it after switching. Also, check if any of your home devices, like smart meters, are linked to your BT broadband connection.

How to switch, step by step

Check Community Fibre availability: Visit Community Fibre’s website to confirm your address is within their coverage area.
Review your BT contract: Confirm your contract end date and any early exit fees.
Sign up with Community Fibre: Place your order online or by phone. You’ll need to provide your details and may need to pass a credit check.
Switching process: Community Fibre uses the One Touch Switching process. Once you sign up, they will notify BT and manage the cancellation for you. Your BT service will remain active until your new Community Fibre connection is live.
Installation: Community Fibre will arrange an engineer visit. The engineer will bring a new fibre line into your property, install a wall socket, and set up your new router. Installation usually takes 1 to 2 hours.
Phone number transfer (if needed): If you want to keep your landline number, Community Fibre will assign a temporary number until the transfer completes, which takes at least 12 working days after installation.
Return BT equipment: Once your new service is live, return any BT equipment if required.

What to watch out for

Early exit fees: Leaving BT before your contract ends can result in significant charges. Always check your contract status before switching.
Installation delays: Some customers have reported delays with Community Fibre installations. Confirm your appointment and keep in touch with Community Fibre for updates.
Service area: Community Fibre’s full-fibre service is mainly available in London. Double-check availability before starting the switch.

Comparison of BT and Community Fibre Broadband Installation Processes and Equipment in the UK (as of March 2026)

Comparison of BT and Community Fibre Broadband Installation Processes and Equipment in the UK (as of March 2026)
Aspect	BT	Community Fibre
Installation Fee	£0	£0 (Standard installation); £75 (Fibre to Your Room)
Standard Installation Duration	Approximately 3 hours	1-2 hours
Equipment Provided	BT Hub, Openreach fibre modem	Pre-configured router
Contract Length Options	12 or 24 months	12, 18, or 24 months
Monthly Prices (Standard Plans)	£19 (100 Mbps), £25 (500 Mbps), £30 (920 Mbps)	£19 (100 Mbps), £25 (500 Mbps), £30 (920 Mbps)
Monthly Price (5 Gbps Plan)	Not available	£59 (24 months)
Data Allowance	Unlimited	Unlimited
Installation Process	Engineer installs fibre, replaces faceplate, connects BT Hub	Engineer runs fibre to property, installs wall socket, connects pre-configured router
Fibre to Your Room Service	Not available	Available for £75, allows router placement in a preferred room within 40 metres

Sources: BT, Community Fibre, Britel, Broadband Analyst. See full list below.

Switch with Lodo

Want to make switching from BT to Community Fibre as easy as possible? Lodo is the simplest way to do it.

With Lodo, we will place your order with Community Fibre, manage the switch, and cancel your BT contract. If anything goes wrong, we resolve it with the providers directly. Free, no catch. Switch with Lodo for free

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to leave BT?

If you cancel your BT service before the end of your minimum contract period, you'll incur an early termination fee. This fee is calculated based on the remaining months of your contract, minus any costs BT saves from your early departure. For example, if you pay £35 a month and have four months left, the fee would be approximately £67.32. It's advisable to contact BT directly to determine the exact amount. (bt.com)

How long does the switch to Community Fibre take?

Community Fibre installations are typically completed within 1-2 hours for standard residential setups. The process includes bringing the fibre line into your home, installing a wall socket, and connecting the router. (broadbandanalyst.co.uk)

Will I lose my phone number, email address, or smart meter data when switching?

Switching broadband providers may affect services like your phone number and email address, especially if they're tied to your current provider. It's essential to contact BT to discuss the transferability of these services. Regarding smart meter data, it should remain unaffected by the broadband switch, as it's typically managed separately from your internet service.

Can I switch to Community Fibre if I am still under contract with BT?

Yes, you can switch to Community Fibre while still under contract with BT. However, terminating your BT service early may incur an early termination fee. It's recommended to review your BT contract terms and contact them for specific details. (bt.com)

Do I need to contact BT, or does Community Fibre handle the switch?

Community Fibre can manage the entire switching process on your behalf, including notifying BT of your cancellation. Alternatively, you can contact BT directly to cancel your service. (help.communityfibre.co.uk)

What happens if something goes wrong during the switch?

If issues arise during the switching process, Community Fibre's customer support team is available to assist. It's advisable to contact them promptly to resolve any problems. (help.communityfibre.co.uk)

Is there any downtime during the switch to Community Fibre?

Community Fibre aims to minimize downtime during the switch. Most installations are completed within 1-2 hours, ensuring a smooth transition. (broadbandanalyst.co.uk)

Are there any specific considerations when switching from BT to Community Fibre?

When switching from BT to Community Fibre, ensure that your new address is within Community Fibre's coverage area. Additionally, be aware of any early termination fees from BT if you're still under contract. It's also important to check the compatibility of your existing equipment with Community Fibre's service. (help.communityfibre.co.uk)