**Martin Lewis Issues Urgent Advice to Sky Customers Over Possible Contract Price Rises**
Money-saving expert Martin Lewis has sent out a fresh warning to Sky customers, urging them to keep a careful eye on contract notifications in light of potential mid-contract price increases. The guidance comes after recent changes from regulator Ofcom, which have shifted how companies must inform customers about price adjustments and how customers may exit their contracts.
Speaking on a recent episode of The Martin Lewis Podcast, the presenter addressed a query from a Sky mobile customer struggling with high costs and limited options to exit their agreement without hefty fees. The viewer, identified as Lee, asked for help finding ways to switch contracts or reduce costs, noting that Sky offers very little if customers return their phones and charges significant fees to end contracts early.
Lewis highlighted a crucial change in consumer protection rules, explaining that telecoms providers in the UK now have to state, clearly and upfront, if any price increases will occur during the contract term. This rule is intended to ensure people aren’t surprised by mid-contract changes that could make agreements less affordable.
However, Lewis clarified that Sky operates a slightly different approach. “The reality,” he stated, “is that not all companies always disclose future price rises when you sign up. Sky is one of the few firms which does not specify the exact price increases at the beginning of your contract.” He continued, “But if they do push prices up during your contract, they are compelled to let you leave within 30 days—without any financial penalty.”
This small but significant distinction is one that could allow many Sky customers to terminate their agreements if Sky issue mid-contract price hikes without prior explicit notification. Lewis was keen to add that this rule is not exclusive to Sky but extends to a range of other mobile and broadband providers too.
The financial journalist urged Sky customers to pay close attention to any communications from their service provider regarding alterations to their monthly bills. “Whenever you spot a notification about a price increase, that’s your window to review your deal and decide whether staying with that provider is still right for you.”
Lewis also addressed more general advice for those tethered to a mobile or broadband contract and frustrated by rising costs. He reminded listeners that, unless service levels drop considerably—which is often difficult to prove—customers are typically liable for early termination fees if they wish to leave before their contract ends. “In these cases, if there is no price rise and you want to leave early, you’ll probably have to pay,” Lewis remarked, urging listeners to first check whether they are still ‘in contract’ before taking further action.
For those seeking to minimise bills or exit contracts penalty-free, keeping track of contract end dates and reading all correspondence from telecoms companies has never been more important. Lewis’s advice is to use the 30-day exit window wisely if and when it appears, and to act fast if your provider announces an unexpected price rise.
Listeners interested in hearing Martin Lewis’s full commentary on the topic can access the episode from 19 June on platforms including BBC Sounds, Spotify, and Apple Music.
For Sky customers across the UK, this advice provides potential hope for those feeling locked in by rising costs. As the broadband and mobile landscape becomes ever more complex, Lewis’s guidance could help many households make more informed, cost-effective decisions about their connectivity.
As a reminder, staying vigilant and reviewing contract terms when notified of changes may help customers avoid unnecessary fees and maintain control over monthly outgoings. For more insights and updates, the Martin Lewis Money Show and allied media channels continue to provide practical tips for consumers nationwide.