Broadband Universal Service Obligation

Every home and business in the UK has the legal right to request a decent, affordable broadband connection.

The Broadband Universal Service

From 20 March 2020, if your home or business can’t get a broadband service providing a download speed of 10Mbps and an upload speed of 1Mbps, you can request an upgraded connection. The service provider for Nottinghamshire is BT whom you can make the request to. You do not need to be an existing BT customer to apply.

If you believe you fit the criteria to request a decent broadband connection you are recommended to visit the BT website where they can check your eligibility.

Am I eligible?

When you contact BT they will have 30 days to determine if you are eligible, and how much the cost of your connection will be.

Your home or business will be eligible if it:

• has no access to existing decent broadband; and
• will not be covered by a public broadband scheme offered by the UK and devolved governments in the next 12 months

If you currently only have access to a decent service that is priced over £46.10 per month, you’ll also have the right to request a universal service connection.

What will it cost?

If the cost of building or upgrading your share of the network connection is £3,400 or less, you won't have to pay for this work to be done.

If it will cost more than £3,400 to connect your home, and you still want a connection, you will have to pay the excess costs. If you want to do this, BT will conduct a survey and give you a quote within 60 days.

You will pay the same price for your new broadband service as anyone else on the same package, and no more than £46.10 a month.

How long does it take to set up?

Most people will get a connection within 12 months, but it may take up to 24 months for some.

What if I’m not eligible?

If you’re not eligible – BT will tell you what your options are:

• satellite broadband – you might be able to get a connection via a satellite broadband service. To receive satellite services, you will need to install a satellite dish on your property.
• You may be experiencing in-home connectivity issues which could affect your broadband speeds. It can depends on factors such as the location of your WiFi router within your home or the number of people in your area going online at busy times during the day. Contact your provider to see if they have any advice on what you can do to improve your connectivity in your home.
• You may be eligible in the future – BT will let you know if the circumstances around the broadband USO change.