Ofcom, the UK telecom regulator has introduced a new code of practisewhich requires Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to provide their users with a minimum expected broadband speed, failure which the customers can leave the ISP penalty free if the service is not improved within a month. 

The code of practise which came into force on 1 March 2019, although not binding has been signed by key players such as BT, EE, Plusnet,  Sky, TalkTalk and Virgin Media. This minimum speed guarantee is applicable to ADSL broadband, fire-to-the-cabinet and cable services. There is also a requirement for the providers to give customers realistic speed estimates for peak times, which are defined as between 8pm and 10pm for home users and between 12pm and 2pm for businesses. This will help the customers to better measure their expectations.