What to do before you cancel Origin Broadband
When cancelling any broadband service you must always check the terms of your contract, or the early termination fees that may apply could come as a shock. You’ll also want to have a new broadband deal in place.
Check your contract
Origin Broadband deals have either a 12 or 18-month minimum term, and if you cancel before this has ended you’ll have to pay for the remaining months. Check with Origin to see how long is left. If you’re still in contract you’re better off waiting until it’s finished unless it’s absolutely unavoidable.
Find a new broadband deal
Unless you no longer need broadband at all, you’ll want to have a new service ready to go to take over from your cancelled Origin deal. Not sure what you want yet? Enter a postcode to see the latest offers available in your area:
How to cancel Origin Broadband
If you’re out of contract: cancelling Origin for free
The easiest way to end your Origin service is to switch to a new broadband deal on the Openreach (BT line) telephone network. This is the network used by most providers including Origin, and when you move between Openreach ISPs the switching process can be handled by the new provider. Just sign up to the new package and let them do the rest.
There’s usually very little disruption to the connection too; on the day of the switch you’ll experience a brief outage as the line swaps over then you’re back up and running.
If you are switching to a different network, such as Virgin Media, or you no longer need broadband, then you’ll need to contact Origin to request cancellation.
To cancel you can call Origin at 0330 024 1777.
Make sure you have all your account details to hand. Like any other provider Origin will try persuading you to stay, but just clearly state your desire to end the service and politely decline their offers. Although, if the reason you’re leaving is cost then you might want to hear what they have to say.
For more on contacting Origin, check out our Origin Broadband complaints and customer service details page.
Cancelling Origin if you’re still in contract
Cancelling when you’re still in contract is exactly the same as outlined above: either switch to a new provider or call up and end your service.
The difference is that you’ll have to pay an early termination charge based on the remaining months on your contract.
Origin Broadband early cancellation fees
In the event of an early cancellation Origin Broadband will charge you for the total remaining cost of the service. So take whatever you’re paying monthly and multiply it by the remaining time on the contract, and that’s how much you’ll need to pay.
Frequently Asked Questions about cancelling Origin
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What is Origin broadband’s notification period?
Origin requires 30 days notification. If you switch providers you’ll usually be swapped over within about two weeks, so you’ll pay the remaining days in your final bill.
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Do I need to return my Origin Wi-Fi router?
If you’re still in contract you will need to return the router, or pay £40. You are responsible for sending the router back and it would be a good idea to get proof of posting as Origin will charge you if it goes missing and you cannot prove it was returned.
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Can I keep my phone number?
Your phone number can be switched - make sure to mention this to your new provider when signing up.
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Can I cancel for free if my Origin broadband is too slow?
Origin has not signed on to Ofcom's voluntary broadband speed code of practice so its customers do not have a right to cancel if the speed is slower than expected. It is still possible you could be released from the contract if the service is underperforming, but you may have to raise an official complaint. Begin by speaking to technical support, and take it further if the issue isn't resolved.