1 in 4 Brits would walk away from dream home over slow broadband
Broadband has officially overtaken local schools as a priority for UK home movers, with new research revealing that one in four people would reject a property entirely if it lacked a fast connection.
A study by full-fibre provider Hyperoptic shows that 45% of recent and prospective movers now rank broadband as a key factor when choosing a home, coming in just behind transport links at 51% and well ahead of local schools at 26%.
Furthermore, 23% of survey respondents admitted that poor or slow broadband would put them off buying or renting a property completely, while an additional 34% said it would make them think twice before committing.
The data highlights a major shift in moving behaviour, peaking during the busy late-summer moving window. Getting the keys is no longer the sole focus; 37% of respondents stated they do not feel settled until their Wi-Fi is actively working – placing connectivity right behind heating and hot water (40%).
Without a working connection on day one, 45% reported feeling frustrated, 26% felt stressed or overwhelmed, and 23% felt cut off or isolated.
When asked what they need broadband for during their first 24 hours in a new property, respondents pointed heavily to essential admin: setting up utilities and online banking both tied as the top priorities (50%), followed by contacting friends and family (37%), streaming TV and films (34%), setting up smart home devices (33%), and working from home (29%).
To combat moving-day stress, providers are urging movers to plan ahead rather than leaving Wi-Fi as an afterthought.
Top Tips for Sorting Your Move-In Broadband
-
Check availability early: Look up broadband options at your prospective address before you exchange contracts or sign a tenancy agreement.
-
Review your current contract: Confirm whether your existing provider can transfer your service to the new property or if you need to start fresh.
-
Book ahead: Schedule your installation or transfer as soon as you have a confirmed moving date to avoid delays.
-
Plan router placement: Identify the best central spot for your router to ensure a strong signal reaches the rooms you use most.
-
Consider flexibility: If you are on a short-term rental or want to avoid long commitments right after moving, look into flexible rolling contracts.
For latest tech stories go to TechDigest.tv
Discover more from Tech Digest
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
