Ask for the terms in writing and compare the total cost over the period you expect to use the service.
Calculate the real total
Add monthly rental, setup and installation, router or handset charges, licences, call bundles, number porting, engineer visits and any optional support. Check whether prices include VAT and whether equipment is rented, financed or owned.
Understand price changes
Ask for the monthly price at the start and every stated price change during the minimum term, in pounds and pence where applicable. Ofcom’s rules differ by customer type and service; business contracts can have different terms, and rules for small businesses depend on the service and size. Read the contract and Ofcom guidance that applies to your business before relying on a consumer summary.
Check term and exit costs
Confirm the minimum term, notice period, early termination calculation and what happens if you move premises or the service cannot be delivered. Ask whether adding a service or device changes the contract end date, and get the answer in writing.
Measure the support promise
Ask what faults are covered, how to report them, when support is available, target repair times, exclusions and any service credits. A headline repair target is only useful if you know when the clock starts and what situations are excluded.
Check the technical details
Confirm the underlying access technology, expected download and upload speeds, static IP needs, router responsibilities, security, voice compatibility and power-cut behaviour. For a phone system, check number transfer, call routing, user licences and any call charges outside the bundle.
Compare like with like
Put two or three offers in a table using the same term, speed, included calls, support, equipment and price assumptions. Ask the provider to explain anything that is verbal but missing from the written offer. Keep the contract summary and full terms with the order.
Sign when the service fits the business
A lower monthly fee may be right if the service meets your needs; the key is knowing the complete cost and obligations before agreeing. Ofcom provides specific guidance on business contracts and price rises. The Calls Warehouse can help review what a quote includes.
Further reading
- Ofcom: telecoms contracts for businesses
- Ofcom: telecoms price rises and small businesses
- Ofcom: business customer protections
Sources checked 3 November 2026. Guidance can change; confirm current availability and contract terms with the relevant provider.
Need help with your business telecoms?
Talk through your requirements with The Calls Warehouse.