How to Switch from Hyperoptic to Community Fibre
Switching from Hyperoptic to Community Fibre means moving from one full fibre broadband provider to another, each with its own technology and installation process. Here’s what to look out for and how to make the switch as smooth as possible.
Before you switch
First, check your contract end date with Hyperoptic. If you are still within your minimum term, you may face early termination charges of £20 per month remaining on broadband-only contracts or £25 per month for broadband and phone bundles. Hyperoptic also offers a 30-day satisfaction period from activation, allowing you to cancel without penalty if you are within this window. Remember, you will lose access to any Hyperoptic-provided email addresses and bundled services like TV or phone if you do not arrange alternatives. You must also return any Hyperoptic equipment to avoid extra charges.
How to switch, step by step
- Check Community Fibre availability: Confirm Community Fibre serves your address, as their coverage is focused on London and surrounding areas.
- Sign up with Community Fibre: Start your order online or by phone. Community Fibre uses One Touch Switching, which means they will handle the cancellation with Hyperoptic for you.
- Arrange installation: An engineer visit is usually required to install Community Fibre’s FTTP equipment. Installation typically takes up to two hours and is scheduled to minimise downtime.
- Number porting (if applicable): If you want to keep your landline number, let Community Fibre know. They will manage the porting process, which can take up to 12 working days. You may be given a temporary number in the meantime.
- Return Hyperoptic equipment: Once your Community Fibre service is active, follow Hyperoptic’s instructions to return any routers or hardware to avoid non-return fees.
- Set up your new service: Connect your devices to the new Community Fibre router. If you use a Hyperoptic email address, set up a new email account before your old service ends.
What to watch out for
- Early termination fees: If you are still under contract with Hyperoptic, exit fees can add up quickly. Always check your contract status before initiating a switch.
- Installation delays: While Community Fibre aims for quick installations, some customers have experienced delays. Confirm your installation date and ask about any possible hold-ups.
- Service compatibility: If you rely on your broadband for services like smart meters or home alarms, confirm with Community Fibre that these will work with their FTTP connection before switching.
Comparison table
| Feature | Hyperoptic | Community Fibre |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Process | Free activation fee; installation time varies by location | Free installation; typically completed within 48 hours |
| Contract Length | Options for 12, 24, or 30 days | Options for 12 or 24 months |
| Monthly Price (150 Mbps) | £20 for 24 months | £17.99 for 24 months |
| Monthly Price (500 Mbps) | £23 for 24 months | £23 for 24 months |
| Monthly Price (1 Gbps) | £25 for 24 months | £25 for 24 months |
| Data Allowance | Unlimited data | Unlimited data |
| Upload Speed (150 Mbps) | 150 Mbps | 150 Mbps |
| Upload Speed (500 Mbps) | 500 Mbps | 500 Mbps |
| Upload Speed (1 Gbps) | 1 Gbps | 1 Gbps |
| Router Provided | WiFi 6 enabled router | WiFi 6 enabled router |
| Price Increase During Contract | No mid-contract price increases | Annual price increase of £2 per month |
Sources: Community Fibre and Hyperoptic official websites, broadband.co.uk, broadbandanalyst.co.uk (see below for links).
Switch with Lodo
Want to make switching from Hyperoptic 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 Hyperoptic 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 Hyperoptic?
Hyperoptic charges a service termination fee of £20 per remaining month for broadband-only contracts and £25 per remaining month for combined broadband and phone contracts if you cancel during the minimum commitment period. (support.pleaseconnectme.co.uk)
How long does the switch to Community Fibre take?
Community Fibre installations typically take up to two hours for standard residential setups. (help.communityfibre.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, depending on your current provider's policies. It's advisable to contact Hyperoptic to discuss the transfer of these services. Regarding smart meter data, it should remain unaffected as it's typically stored independently of your broadband service.
Can I switch to Community Fibre if I am still under contract with Hyperoptic?
Yes, you can switch to Community Fibre while still under contract with Hyperoptic. However, you may incur early termination fees from Hyperoptic. Community Fibre offers a 'One Touch Switch' service that handles the switch and may credit you up to £300 to cover these fees. (hyperoptic.com)
Do I need to contact Hyperoptic, or does Community Fibre handle the switch?
Community Fibre's 'One Touch Switch' service can handle the entire switching process, including notifying Hyperoptic of your cancellation. Alternatively, you can contact Hyperoptic directly to cancel your service. (help.communityfibre.co.uk)
What happens if something goes wrong during the switch?
If issues arise during the switch, Community Fibre's customer service team is available to assist. You can contact them via phone at 0808 196 6262 or through their web chat. (help.communityfibre.co.uk)
Is there any downtime during the switch to Community Fibre?
Community Fibre aims to provide a seamless transition with minimal downtime. Standard installations typically take up to two hours. (help.communityfibre.co.uk)
Are there any specific considerations when switching from Hyperoptic to Community Fibre?
When switching, ensure that Community Fibre's services are available at your new address. Community Fibre currently serves over 1.3 million premises in London and surrounding areas. (broadbandanalyst.co.uk)
Sources
- What is switching / one touch switching?
- What is the Cancellation and Switching process arranged by Community Fibre?
- Hyperoptic customer service and cancellation help
- Switch to Hyperoptic for up to £300 credit | Hyperoptic
- Switching to Community Fibre
- Hyperoptic | Full Fibre Optic Broadband Provider