This easy-to-use checklist will help uncover what you might still need to do.
At the turn of the century, there was a huge concern that computers would stop working; the Y2K problem. They didn’t. People said that Y2K was a non-event. That is because businesses had prepared.
Today, the best outcome for all businesses is for the switch-off to be a non-event too. Use this checklist to be prepared.
What is the switch off?
BT is switching off its traditional analogue network to make way for more advanced, digital, solutions. Every premise in the UK is affected by this change. In practice, it means that all telephone lines, intruder alarms, door entry systems, CCTV, lifts and many other devices will no longer work plugged into a telephone socket. A router needs to be used. Also, some devices might need to be replaced to work.
The change impacts a variety of devices for small businesses – not just telephones. If any devices are overlooked – which is very easy to do – then there is a danger of disrupting customers and colleagues. It may affect security or even your insurance. Any of these could result in avoidable costs and lost revenues. Even if you are confident that you are ready, it is worth double checking.
There isn’t one single switchover date. Businesses are being migrated in phases between now between and the end of 2025.
The company supplying your existing services should be sending information to you of they have not done this already. However, about half of the businesses that have received information have said that they haven’t found it very helpful. This is one of the reasons that Larato has worked with Openreach to create this simpler checklist and guide.
If your business property is rented, it may be the responsibility of the landlord or owner to make the necessary changes for you. Make contact to make sure that this is happening and that any device changes will not result in service loss to your business.
Some of the devices that will stop working are connected with insurance protection; e.g., intruder alarms, fire alarms etc. If a device stops working, you may not be protected by your insurance policy.
For example, any devices that alert a third party like the police may stop doing this after the switch-off. This could leave premises exposed and possible invalidate policies.
If you are in doubt, contact your insurance company and ask for their advice.
Check your devices. Remember that some of them might be old, possibly in a cupboard where no-one really looks etc.
You need to know what needs to happen with each device. Some may just need a router; others might need replacing. This checklist, developed in collaboration with Openreach helps you to understand exactly what you need to do to make sure your business moves smoothly through the swich off. It sets out all of the devices that you may have in your business so that you can decide what you need to do.
Ready to find out how we can work with you to help meet your business objectives and bridge the gap between buyers and sellers with our market-leading intelligence and decades of strategy experience.