Are you moving into a new home and keen to make sure you can make landline calls?
Do you know if any costs are involved, how long will it take to get a new line installed, or if an engineer will need access to your property? Let's explore...
Installing a new phone line: the key points
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Setting up a new phone line - the basics
Installing a phone line in a new build requires planning, but the process is straightforward.
Here’s a quick checklist:
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Find out if a phone line already exists - A phone provider, such as BT, will be able to check if there’s an existing line using a phone number or postcode of the property.
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Choose a broadband and phone provider - You can compare broadband and phone bundle deals from internet service providers (ISPs) such as BT, Sky and Virgin Media on Broadband Genie. Although many other providers give you the option to add calls during checkout.
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Decide if you need a phone line – Many full-fibre deals don’t actually require a traditional phone line as you may know it, as phone calls now go via digital voice services.
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Schedule an engineer visit – If a new line is needed, an Openreach network engineer or provider engineer will install it.
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Prepare for installation day – Ensure an adult is present and get landlord permission if renting.
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Complete activation and test your connection – Once installed, check your phone and broadband to confirm everything is working.
Tip: Connection times can vary from 4 to 21 days, so plan ahead if a phone line is essential.
New phone line installation costs
The cost of installing a new phone line varies by provider. Here’s a breakdown of typical fees:
| Provider | New line cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| BT | £140 | Free with fibre broadband or £49.99-£140 |
| EE | £50 | Applies to new and reconnected lines |
| Sky | £20 | No charge if an active line exists |
| TalkTalk | £60 | Required for new and existing lines |
| Virgin Media | from £30 | No fixed price. 'Starting from £30 for standard install'. |
Tip: Some providers waive installation fees on certain deals. Always check before signing up.
How long will it take to get a new phone line installed?
The delay between choosing a provider and getting your broadband and home phone activated is typically two to three weeks.
The actual work on the day usually takes no more than a couple of hours. Your home is connected to the relevant network, a phone socket is installed, and speed and signal integrity tests are carried out. Of course, there could be problems, and it could take longer if any work needs to be done outside the property.
Same-day & express broadband installation
If you need an internet connection urgently, but don’t want the hassle of setting up a landline phone in your new house, here are some options that don’t require a telephone service.
Sign up to full fibre or Virgin Media - you still may need an engineer to connect you to a broadband network. But most full fibre deals now give you the option to include digital calls. These won’t need a traditional telephone line, nor will you have to pay extra line rental.
4G or 5G Home Broadband - Deals from 4G or 5G Home Broadband providers such as Three don’t require a fixed line and can be as fast as a fixed line service. Most packages don’t require any installation at all and come with flexible, rolling-monthly contracts if you prefer.
You can get set up very quickly, but you should check you have adequate network coverage before committing to paying.
Find out more about Three 4G & 5G Deals
Frequently asked questions about phone line installations
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Do I need a phone line for broadband?
Some broadband services, including slower ADSL deals and some fibre packages, require a phone line. However, full fibre, 4G/5G, and Virgin Media options do not.
Providers such as Virgin Media offer broadband deals without a phone, but you still need a physical line. You can also get broadband without phone service using full fibre broadband and those offering a digital broadband service (SoGEA)from the likes of BT and Plusnet, but this still requires a cable to come into your home.
For more information, see our guide to broadband without a phone line.
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How long does installation take?
Once booked, installation typically takes 2-3 weeks to schedule, but the actual setup only takes a few hours.
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How do I install a new phone line in a flat or apartment?
If you own the property, a new line can be installed by contacting your preferred provider. If access is available to the engineer, it should be as straightforward as installing a line to a house.
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What if I rent my home?
Speak to your landlord before installing a new line, especially if drilling is required. Also, avoid long-term broadband contracts if your tenancy is short.
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Are there alternatives to installing a phone line?
Some mobile phone networks, such as EE or Three, offer 4G and 5G broadband connections. You won't need a phone line, just a 4G/5G Wi-Fi router. You could also get broadband via satellite or from a WISP (wireless internet service provider). However, these have their own drawbacks, and fixed-line connections are usually the best option.
Conclusion
Getting a phone installed in a new build home is easy if you plan ahead and stay organised.
Compare broadband providers who offer bundled broadband + phone deals, sort a line check, and schedule an installation early to avoid delays.
If you need broadband quickly, you might want to consider mobile broadband alternatives.
We also have a dedicated guide to broadband installation if you'd like to learn more about the practicalities of setting up a new broadband service.
Check broadband + phone deals in your area now!