Switching operator
- How do I know what alternative providers and services are available?
- Why would I consider changing?
- What do I need to do before I switch?
- How do I switch service provider?
- Will my service be interrupted?
- What happens if I change my mind?
- What questions should I ask any alternative provider before changing?
- How long will it take before I am connected?
- What about my other telephone services?
- Do I have to change my phone number?
How do I know what alternative providers and services are available?
The number of telecoms service providers offering landline, mobile and broadband services has increased over the last number of years, giving consumers greater choice when considering their telecoms needs. ComReg’s independent price comparison website www.callcosts.ie provides details of the current personal telecommunications packages on the market, which, depending on the scale of your business, may be appropriate to your needs.
Why would I consider changing?
When comparing the different prices, prices and terms and conditions of various products and services, you may source a package that matches your needs. You may choose different providers for each service your business requires or you may be able to choose a single alternative service provider to provide all the services you require (bundles).
What do I need to do before I switch?
You will need to consider the various platforms/technologies that are available and that you wish to use. More information is available in the Telecoms Products section.
You need to consider your personal and your business needs. You will need to decide if you want to have separate services and contracts for each. Some providers have different terms and conditions for business and residential services. You will need to be aware of the implications, such as your consumer rights, of bundling your residential services into a business contract.
You should ensure that you are aware of the costs for all the services you want to use, such as call waiting and call answering, directory enquiries, calls to 1890 and 1850 numbers etc.
You need to consider your personal and your business needs. You will need to decide if you want to have separate services and contracts for each. Some providers have different terms and conditions for business and residential services. You will need to be aware of the implications, such as your consumer rights, of bundling your residential services into a business contract.
You should ensure that you are aware of the costs for all the services you want to use, such as call waiting and call answering, directory enquiries, calls to 1890 and 1850 numbers etc.
You should review your contract(s) with your current service provider to ascertain the conditions for termination. In particular, you need to be aware of your minimum contract period, notice of termination and termination charges and the policy with respect to the return of equipment.
How do I switch service provider?
When you have compared the products and selected a provider, you will need to consider the conditions for termination of your current contract in order to minimise termination penalties.
You can make contact with your new provider to give your consent to switch and the new provider will organise the transfer of services for your business.
You will need to enter into a new agreement for service with your new provider, which involves either signing a consent form, or confirming your consent over the phone, via Third Party Verification (TPV) or Voice Contract.
In order to for your switch to be processed correctly you will need to give your new provider your Universal Account Number (UAN). This will be on the bill from your current provider. This UAN number must match with your address otherwise the switch may not be able to be processed.
You can make contact with your new provider to give your consent to switch and the new provider will organise the transfer of services for your business.
You will need to enter into a new agreement for service with your new provider, which involves either signing a consent form, or confirming your consent over the phone, via Third Party Verification (TPV) or Voice Contract.
In order to for your switch to be processed correctly you will need to give your new provider your Universal Account Number (UAN). This will be on the bill from your current provider. This UAN number must match with your address otherwise the switch may not be able to be processed.
Will my service be interrupted?
The switch over to the new service provider should be seamless for single services and for bundles.
For broadband and voice transfers, a new facility has been put in place to ensure that both services can be transferred simultaneously without intervention by the customer or interruption to service.
For broadband and voice transfers, a new facility has been put in place to ensure that both services can be transferred simultaneously without intervention by the customer or interruption to service.
What happens if I change my mind?
If you have entered into a contract with a new service provider, you may have a minimum cooling off period (your rights in this respect depend on the nature of the contract and the method of sale). You should ask your new provider, when signing up about your rights with respect to a cooling off period and, if applicable, how to cancel the contract within this period.
If you are entitled to a cooling off period and you change your mind within the period but after the switch, you are liable for any telephone call charges incurred in the interim.
If you are entitled to a cooling off period and you change your mind within the period but after the switch, you are liable for any telephone call charges incurred in the interim.
What questions should I ask any alternative provider before changing?
- Ask for the customer Code of Practice/Guarantee Scheme
- Ask for the standard Terms and Conditions of contract
- Ask if your new service requires additional equipment and is there a cost associated
- Ask if there is a minimum contract period and if so what are the early cancellation penalties
- Ask how long will it take before the changeover
- Ask whether there are any additional charges, such as connection fees
- Ask about any special discounts
How long will it take before I am connected?
Your new service provider will provide you with a date of switchover in service.
If you are switching mobile service provider it will take up to 1 day. If you are switching your fixed line service provider it normally takes approximately 10 days from the date you signed-up. You should ask your new service provider about its related commitments in its code of practice and customer guarantee scheme.
What about my other telephone services?
Ancillary services, such as call waiting, call answering etc. will remain in place. Your internet settings and broadband services should not be affected if you select a new service provider for line rental and calls. Your new service provider will provide you with further details.
Do I have to change my phone number?
You can keep your existing phone number. There should be no disruption to your service or change in the way you use your telephone providing that you are requesting service at the same business address.
