Switchover & contract expiry help needed

[#1]

I need some guidance on what to do about my expiring contract, with regards to the new FTTP rollout. The email I received provides me with the info needed about renewal and the new system that is to be put in place. The email also says my current contract will rollover after expiry with the new increased pricing. Is it possible for my services to continue as usual using the old system - until the end of the year on a rolling non-fixed term contract - or am I forced to initiate the changeover to the new system now?

Also, if it is possible to continue using the old system until the end of its life, will my landline still remain working - since they are now being phased out too? Can someone please advise me on what is best to do here. I have a serious health issue being treated at this time and without considerable stress would not be able to cope with having to deal with engineers coming out and doing work inside the house, especially for any extended period of time.

What work is actually needed for the changeover. How long would it take and how much of a hassle would it be? Or am I able to delay until nearer the final switchoff? I have found out I'm living at a '1 Stage Install Process' address if that helps.
Would it be best for me to stay as I am for now considering my circumstances, with the assumption my contract will automatically rollover upon expiry next month & services will continue as normal or can that not happen?

Regards,
Karen.

[#2]

So basically, do expiring contracts still rollover & will my current services still work without the new technology rollout for the rest of this year.

[#3]

Hi @Karen68 

Your service should continue working as normal, albeit at an increased price, if you didn't upgrade. Unless the email says otherwise.

A ‘1-stage install’ is usually quite straightforward. An engineer would need to visit to bring the fibre connection into your home and install a small fibre box (ONT). This typically takes around 1–2 hours, and disruption is generally kept to a minimum.

If you have any worries, or would like someone to check your service specifically, I recommend speaking with our customer support team, who'll be happy to help.

Chris

[#4]

@Karen68 

You might be able to run your current setup at out of contract (expensive) prices but PN are actively looking to close the phone service before PSTN is shuttered in Jan 2027.

Look at the following to see what's involved in a full fibre install. One thing to note with the video is two power sockets are not necessarily required where the ONT is sited. The router connects via ethernet cable so can go anywhere you're happy to run cable.

https://www.openreach.com/help-and-support/full-fibre-broadband-installation-checklist#accordion-b43...

If it's a Stage One install OR are not expecting any problems.

Do you want a phone service after PSTN closes. It'll be VOIP which can take a bit of work to set up and you need to find a VOIP provider to use.

Brian

[#5]

Thank you for the response. That link is really detailed & helpful. I'll look it up some more before any final decision. And yes, I'll be wanting a phone service.

[#6]

@Karen68 

If you log into your PN Members page it should tell you the exact date of your contract expirey and the out of contract price.

Yoy could phone the PlusNet Customer Options Team on 0800 013 2632 and ask how long you can continue "as is" abeit with out of contract prices. Explain that due to a health issue you're not really in a position to make changes at the moment.

If you wish a phone service (with your current number) you have two options - stay with PN and arrange for a VOIP provider to provide a phone service or move to an ISP which offers both.

PN will offer to move you to EE but you're free to move to anyone you like. As such, you should have a look at Zen Internet. Not the cheapest but have a good reputation and provide a well regarded router. If you have DECT phones the router has a built in DECT Base station.

Depending on your phone usage (can you use mobiles for outgoing?) A&A are quite cheap. They also have a good FAQ page on VOIP.  https://www.aa.net.uk/voice-and-mobile/voip-information/

Note that you may have a few days downtime on the phone if you stay with PN and VOIP doesn't work during power cuts.

Brian