Ofcom has today published new guidelines on the extra charges levied by broadband ISPs and communications providers. These are often hidden away deep within the small print, causing many consumers to be unaware of their existence:


The regulator warns ISPs that they must meet their obligations under the Unfair Terms in Consumer Contract Regulations 1999 act. This requires providers to be clear and up front with their customers, make it easy for consumers to understand the charges, make sure any extra charges that are not part of the service price are fair.

These charges most typically surface when paying by cash or cheque (rather than by direct debit), receiving an itemised or paper bill, paying late (or not at all); or leaving a provider before your contract has ended:



Telecoms and pay-TV companies now have until the beginning of April to make any necessary changes to their terms and conditions. After that, Ofcom will consider the best way to make sure they comply with the law.