OpenReach, which provides the infrastructure for the majority of the nation’s internet connections, uses the Royal Mail postcode database when ordering broadband – if your property isn’t listed, you can’t order broadband with any of the major suppliers as they all use the OpenReach system.
Some common examples of reasons why your property may not be listed:
- it is a new build, and the developer has not yet communicated the fact that it exists with OpenReach
- it has been empty for a long period
- it isn’t inhabited, or doesn’t have a means of receiving mail, such as a church.
How to order broadband without a postcode:
Option 1: Add your postcode to the Royal Mail database:
For fixed line broadband, i.e. fibre, you need to have a postcode, so the only way forwards is to try and get your property listed with Royal Mail. You can do this yourself and it can be sorted in just a few days – you can submit a request online with Royal Mail here : https://www.royalmail.com/personal/receiving-mail/update-your-address
Sometimes they will come back and ask you to contact your local council, who may ask you to mark your property on a map and pay a small fee, but it is relatively straightforward and they will guide you as to what to do.
Royal Mail may also ask you whether or not the property is able to receive mail – if not, a simple solution would be to just put up a small letter box on the property.
We have helped new and existing customers get their new property added to the database a number of times and if you would like assistance or if you are looking for a reliable Internet Service Provider, please get in touch.
Option 2: Try alternative networks
Look to operators that don’t use the OpenReach Network such as Virgin Media or CityFibre. There may even be smaller networks that service your local area. They may or may not require a postcode so you would need to enquire if it is needed.
We can provide business broadband via a number of different networks such as BT Wholesale, TalkTalk, Sky Wholesale, Vodafone and CityFibre – please get in touch for a full overview of your options and pricing.
Option 3: 5G Broadband
A quicker and easier option would be to bypass the fixed line broadband option entirely and look at 4G or 5G mobile broadband. This is now a serious solution and can often provide speeds greater than the fixed line fibre network – and crucially it does not need a postcode in order to be ordered. Mobile broadband may not suit every scenario but it is definitely worth considering.
Not sure how to proceed?
As a trusted provider of managed and supported business broadband, we can help you find the options available at your address and, if required, assist with getting your address added to the Royal Mail database.
Please use the form below or call us on 03333446441 to get an overview of your options and the assistance your business requires.
