Virgin Media has announced an increase in the mid-contract price rise for both new and existing customers who are renewing their contracts. Starting from October 2, customers signing up for new deals or renewing existing contracts will experience a £4 monthly increase halfway through their contract term.
This price adjustment will take effect from next April and replaces the previous £3.50 mid-contract price rise that current Virgin Media customers have agreed to. However, this change will not impact existing customers as long as they remain on their current deals.
The price hike coincides with Virgin Media’s lineup refresh, which includes the addition of Netflix with ads on plans exceeding 500Mbps, as well as faster speeds bundled with TV packages.
A spokesperson for Virgin Media stated that customers opting for the latest packages, featuring Netflix as standard on all TV bundles and Sky Sports in HD at no extra charge, will see their monthly fees increase by £4 each April.
Ernest Doku, a broadband expert at Uswitch, noted that Virgin Media is raising its fixed mid-contract price rise to £4 per month for new customers, following an initial increase of £3.50 per month less than a year ago. This adjustment applies to new contracts, meaning existing customers renewing their plans should consider their alternatives.
Similar price rises have been announced by BT, EE, and Plusnet, with mid-contract increases now set at £4 per month for new customers. Consumers are advised to compare prices online if they are out of contract to potentially secure better deals elsewhere. It is also recommended to assess current broadband needs and explore downgrading options to save money.
For customers wishing to stay with their current provider, negotiating for lower bills is suggested. Timing negotiations near contract expiration or following a price increase announcement may yield better results. Customers may have the option to exit contracts penalty-free in response to mid-contract price rises, except when the increase was predetermined in the contract terms.
Those receiving benefits should explore eligibility for discounted social tariffs to reduce costs.