At BT, we are committed to improving the UK’s digital infrastructure and bringing the benefits of good connectivity to everyone. The Broadband Universal Service Obligation (USO) is a legal obligation imposed on BT Plc by Ofcom which launched on 20 March 2020.

As the designated Universal Service Provider for the UK excluding Hull, BT is obliged to provide a minimum broadband service of 10Mbps to those who request if the following conditions are met:

  • no service which fulfils the USO criteria is available from BT or another supplier;
  • no suitable improvements are planned within 12 months via a public procurement programme.

BT is required to upgrade a premises’ connectivity to meet the USO criteria at no cost to the customer if the necessary works cost less than £3,400, with costs being met by BT/industry rather than the Government. In practice, upgrades typically result in building gigabit-capable, full-fibre connections. Where the necessary works cost more than £3,400, customers have the option to pay any additional costs. If you think you might be eligible for a broadband USO connection, you can find out more and contact us.

Every six months we publish a report on how we are delivering the broadband USO against key performance specified by Ofcom. These reports are available below. 

BT report on progress against the Broadband Universal Service Obligation
BT report on progress against the Broadband Universal Service Obligation

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