New rules could help millions of mobile, TV, broadband and phone customers save money on bills

NEW rules could help millions of broadband, TV, phone and mobile customers saved hundreds of pounds on bills.

At present, telecoms firms don't have to notify customers when their contract is about to end.

But under new rules being proposed by Ofcom, the telecoms regulator, firms will have to send notifications - via email, text or letter - to inform them of price increases and options to help them save money.

Ofcom estimates that more than 20 million customers are outside their minimum contracts and that more than 10 million of those are on deals where they are paying more than they need to.

The changes could help customers cut their bills by hundreds of pounds a year, with many currently paying up to 20 per cent more.

For a customer a TV, broadband and phone deal this means they could save £72 a year off bills be switching to cheaper ones.

The notifications will have to be sent 40 to 70 days before the contract ends.

Telecoms firms have until October 9 to respond to the new plans, before Ofcom decides whether to impose them.

Lindsey Fussell, from Ofcom, said: “We’re concerned many people are paying more than they need to – particularly those who are out of contract.

“Customers have told us they want to be alerted when their phone, TV or broadband contract is coming to an end, and get advice on their options.

"Under our plans, providers would have to do exactly that.”

Last year, Ofcom revealed plans to make broadband and phone firms pay you when things go wrong.

It has also unveiled plans which allow mobile customers to switch providers by text - but not until July next year.

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