The landline switch-off: what to do before 2027
The UK's old copper phone network is being switched off, and home phones are moving to digital lines by early 2027. For most people it's a simple change. Here's what happens, what to check, and the questions worth asking.
What's happening, in plain English
For decades, home phones have run over copper wires to the local telephone exchange. That network is old and is being retired. Instead, calls will travel over a digital connection, the same kind of line that carries the internet. You'll hear this called a digital landline, Digital Voice or VoIP. They all mean much the same thing.
Providers expect to have moved everyone over by January 2027. Your phone provider should contact you before your line changes, so you don't need to do anything until you hear from them.
Quick answers
Will I keep my phone number?Usually, yes
In most cases your number stays the same. If you're asked to change it, ask your provider why. You can usually keep your number if you move to a different provider too.
Do I need broadband?No
No. Providers still offer a landline-only service for people who don't use the internet. If you don't have broadband, tell your provider and ask what they'll set up for you.
Will my old phone still work?Most corded and cordless phones do
Most home phones carry on working. The difference is where you plug them in: usually into your broadband router or a small adapter, rather than the socket on the wall. Your provider will tell you which.
What usually happens on the day
- Your provider writes, emails or texts to give you a date.
- They may send a new router or adapter in the post. Keep the box until you're up and running.
- On the day, plug your phone into the router or adapter, following the leaflet in the box.
- Make a test call to a friend or family member, and ask them to ring you back.
- If anything doesn't work, call your provider straight away. Use your mobile, or ask a neighbour.
Check these before your switch
Do you have a care alarm or pendant?The most important thing to check
Some personal alarms (also called telecare) were designed for the old network. Phone companies have signed a charter promising extra care for people who rely on their landline, but they can only help if they know about you.
- Tell your phone provider you have an alarm.
- Tell your alarm provider (often the council or a care company) that your line is changing, and ask whether your alarm needs updating.
- After the switch, press your alarm button to test it gets through.
What happens in a power cut?Digital phones need electricity
Old landlines kept working in a power cut. Digital ones don't, because the router needs electricity.
- Keep a mobile phone charged as a backup. Any mobile can call 999, even without credit.
- If you rely on your landline, for example because you have no mobile or poor signal, tell your provider. They must offer at least one free option to keep you able to call 999 for at least an hour, such as a battery backup.
Anything else plugged into your phone line?Burglar alarms, fax machines, door entry
Some burglar alarms, fax machines and older door-entry systems use the phone line. Check with whoever installed or supplied them that they'll work after the switch.
Questions worth asking your provider
- When will my line be switched, and what do I need to do?
- Will I keep my number, and will my bill change?
- Will I need new equipment, and is it free?
- What happens to my phone in a power cut?
- I have a care alarm. How will you make sure it still works?
Watch out for switch-off scams. Be wary of anyone who calls out of the blue saying your phone will be cut off unless you pay, share bank details or let them connect to your computer. Hang up and ring your provider on the number on your bill. More on spotting scams.
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Thinking about your options?
You don't have to change provider: your current one will move you over. But the switch is a good moment to check you're not paying too much for a phone line you mostly use for calls.
My Guide is run by the team behind My Chat, a home phone service designed to be simple and friendly. If you'd like to compare, they'll talk you through it, with no pressure and no jargon.