Based on looking at the website, The4thutility.co.uk appears to be a legitimate provider of full fibre broadband services in the UK, focusing on ultra-fast speeds, reliability, and affordability. While the site presents a generally positive image with customer testimonials and clear service descriptions, a closer look reveals some areas that could be enhanced for full transparency and user assurance. The overall impression is that of a modern, service-oriented company, but the absence of certain standard elements often found on highly trusted e-commerce or service provider sites raises a few questions.
Here’s a summary of the review:
- Website Design: Modern, clean, and user-friendly.
- Information Clarity: Good explanations of full fibre benefits and services.
- Contact Information: Multiple phone numbers and a dedicated contact page are available.
- Customer Testimonials: Features Trustpilot reviews, which adds a layer of social proof.
- Transparency (Missing): Lacks clear links to standard legal documents like Terms & Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Refund Policy directly on the homepage or easily accessible from the footer. There’s also no explicit “About Us” section detailing the company’s history or team.
- Ethical Consideration: Broadband services are generally permissible, as they facilitate communication, education, and work, which align with ethical principles. The core service itself does not inherently promote forbidden activities.
The detailed explanation reveals that while The4thutility.co.uk makes strong claims about its service, the lack of readily available legal documentation is a significant oversight. For a company offering long-term contracts, having easily accessible Terms & Conditions and a Privacy Policy is crucial for consumer trust and compliance. Without these, potential customers might hesitate, as they cannot fully understand their rights, obligations, or how their data will be handled. The emphasis on customer testimonials from Trustpilot is a positive, but it doesn’t replace the need for fundamental legal transparency.
Here are some alternatives to consider for reliable and ethical internet services, focusing on the broader concept of essential home utilities that enable productive and beneficial activities:
-
- Key Features: Wide coverage across the UK, various speed packages including full fibre, strong focus on customer support, offers TV and phone bundles.
- Average Price: Varies significantly based on package and contract length, typically £25-£60 per month.
- Pros: Extensive network, reliable service, established reputation, comprehensive bundles.
- Cons: Can be more expensive than some competitors, contract lengths can be long.
-
- Key Features: Known for very high-speed broadband (up to 1Gbps+), extensive fibre optic network in many urban areas, often bundled with TV and phone services.
- Average Price: £30-£70 per month depending on speed and bundle.
- Pros: Industry-leading speeds, strong bundles, reliable for high-demand users.
- Cons: Availability is not universal across the UK, customer service can be inconsistent.
-
- Key Features: Offers various broadband speeds, often integrated with Sky TV packages, good customer service reputation, focus on family-friendly content controls.
- Average Price: £20-£50 per month, often cheaper with TV bundles.
- Pros: Seamless integration with Sky TV, reliable service, good parental controls.
- Cons: Not always the cheapest stand-alone option, higher speeds might require fibre upgrades.
-
- Key Features: Value-oriented broadband provider, offers ADSL, Fibre, and Full Fibre options, good for budget-conscious users.
- Average Price: £20-£40 per month.
- Pros: Competitive pricing, range of speed options, often includes a fixed price guarantee.
- Cons: Customer service can be hit or miss, network speeds might not be as consistent as premium providers in some areas.
-
- Key Features: Strong offering for existing EE mobile customers with discounts, various fibre options, strong customer support, focus on connectivity.
- Average Price: £25-£55 per month.
- Pros: Excellent for EE mobile users, reliable network, good customer support.
- Cons: May not be as competitive for non-EE mobile customers, availability can vary.
-
- Key Features: Known for its award-winning customer service, straightforward packages, good value for money, reliable basic and fibre broadband.
- Average Price: £20-£40 per month.
- Pros: Outstanding customer service, competitive pricing, reliable and no-frills.
- Cons: Limited advanced features, maximum speeds might not be as high as some competitors.
-
- Key Features: Dedicated full fibre network directly to buildings (FTTP), offering symmetrical speeds up to 1Gbps, ideal for urban areas.
- Average Price: £25-£60 per month.
- Pros: Blazing fast symmetrical speeds, highly reliable, excellent for heavy users.
- Cons: Limited availability (primarily urban buildings and developments), often requires building pre-installation.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
[ratemypost]
The4thutility.co.uk Review & First Look
Based on an initial comprehensive review of The4thutility.co.uk, the website presents itself as a modern and user-friendly platform for offering full fibre broadband services across the UK. The primary focus is on highlighting the benefits of their “ultra-fast, ultra-reliable, ultra-affordable” broadband, with speeds up to 1Gbps. The design is clean, intuitive, and clearly geared towards converting visitors into customers, emphasising ease of use and competitive pricing.
Initial Impressions and User Experience
The homepage is well-structured, immediately showcasing key selling points.
- Prominent CTAs: Clear calls to action like “Buy a new service,” “Join us now,” and “Check availability” guide the user.
- Engaging Copy: The language used is energetic and benefit-driven, making technical aspects of broadband accessible. Phrases like “From buffering to blazing” and “superhighway of internet zipping straight into your home” resonate well.
- Visual Appeal: The use of clean graphics and a modern layout contributes to a professional look.
- Accessibility of Contact: Multiple phone numbers are prominently displayed, making it easy for users to get in touch. This is a positive sign for customer support.
What’s Present and What’s Missing
While the website does a good job of presenting its services and customer testimonials, there are notable omissions common for trusted online businesses.
- Customer Testimonials: The presence of Trustpilot reviews, complete with dates (e.g., “5th May 2025,” “2nd May 2025”), adds a layer of authenticity and social proof. However, the dates being in the future (as of this review’s current date) is a peculiar detail that might raise an eyebrow, though it could be a typo or a way of indicating the year for consistency.
- Marketing Claims: The site clearly labels its marketing claims, providing sources such as the Ofcom report for speed comparisons and BT’s website for savings comparisons. This transparency in sourcing claims is commendable.
- Lack of Legal Documents: Crucially, there are no immediate, easily discoverable links to essential legal documents like Terms & Conditions, Privacy Policy, or Refund Policy from the homepage or its footer. This is a significant concern for transparency and consumer trust, as these documents outline the rights and obligations of both the company and the customer.
- No “About Us” Section: A dedicated “About Us” page detailing the company’s history, mission, or team is absent. This can sometimes make a company feel less established or personable to new visitors seeking more background information.
The4thutility.co.uk Cons
While The4thutility.co.uk presents a compelling offer for full fibre broadband, several aspects on their website raise concerns regarding transparency, completeness, and overall trustworthiness from a comprehensive review perspective. Assingtonautos.co.uk Review
Missing Essential Legal Information
The most significant drawback is the glaring absence of easily accessible legal documentation.
- No Direct Link to Terms & Conditions: For any service provider, especially one involving contractual agreements and ongoing payments, readily available Terms & Conditions are non-negotiable. Without them, customers cannot fully understand the specifics of their contract, cancellation policies, fair usage, or dispute resolution processes. This omission alone is a major red flag for consumer protection.
- Privacy Policy Not Prominently Displayed: Similarly, a Privacy Policy is crucial for outlining how customer data is collected, stored, used, and shared. In an age of increasing data privacy concerns, its absence or non-prominent placement diminishes trust and potentially fails to meet regulatory expectations like GDPR in the UK.
- Lack of Refund or Cancellation Policy: While broadband services are different from physical products, clear policies on cancellations, early termination fees, and any applicable refunds are vital. Not having this information upfront can lead to customer dissatisfaction and legal disputes.
Limited Company Information
The website provides very little background about “We’re 4th Utility” beyond a brief statement.
- No “About Us” Page: A dedicated “About Us” section typically provides insight into the company’s history, mission, values, and the team behind the service. This helps build rapport and credibility. Its absence makes the company seem less established or less keen to share its origins.
- Lack of Team Information: Knowing who is behind the service can add a layer of personal trust. Without names or roles, the company can appear somewhat anonymous.
Potential Trustpilot Review Discrepancy
While leveraging Trustpilot reviews is positive for social proof, a minor detail could be confusing or raise questions.
- Future Dates in Testimonials: Several testimonials are dated “5th May 2025,” “2nd May 2025,” etc., which as of the current date are in the future. This is likely a typographical error or an unusual system date, but it can subtly undermine the immediate credibility of the reviews if noticed by a discerning user. A quick correction would address this.
No Clear Business Registration Details
While contact numbers are present, comprehensive business registration details (e.g., company registration number, registered office address) are not immediately apparent on the homepage or in the footer. Reputable UK businesses often include this information for compliance and transparency.
The4thutility.co.uk Alternatives
When evaluating alternatives to a broadband provider like The4thutility.co.uk, it’s essential to consider established providers known for their reliability, customer support, and transparency, particularly within the UK market. The goal is to ensure a smooth, dependable internet experience, which is a fundamental utility in modern life.
Established UK Broadband Providers
The UK market is robust with several major players and a growing number of smaller, fibre-focused providers.
- BT Broadband: As the largest telecommunications provider in the UK, BT offers extensive coverage, a wide range of fibre optic options (including FTTP in many areas), and a reputation for stability. They provide comprehensive packages, often including TV and phone services, and have strong customer support infrastructure.
- Virgin Media Broadband: Known for its very high-speed cable and fibre broadband, Virgin Media is a strong contender for those needing extreme speeds, especially in urban areas where their network is prevalent. Their bundles are attractive for entertainment and communication needs.
- Sky Broadband: Sky is a popular choice, particularly for those already subscribed to Sky TV. They offer reliable fibre broadband services, good customer support, and integrate well with their entertainment ecosystem.
- TalkTalk Broadband: Positioned as a value-for-money provider, TalkTalk offers competitive pricing across ADSL, Fibre, and Full Fibre services. They are a solid option for budget-conscious users who still seek reliable connectivity.
- EE Broadband: Leveraging the EE mobile network, this provider offers attractive deals for existing EE mobile customers, combining mobile and home broadband services for seamless connectivity.
- Plusnet Broadband: With a strong focus on customer service and competitive pricing, Plusnet is often lauded for its no-frills, reliable broadband packages, making it a good choice for those who prioritise support.
Fibre-Focused Alternatives
Beyond the traditional giants, a new wave of fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) providers are emerging, offering dedicated full fibre connections that bypass older copper infrastructure.
- Hyperoptic Broadband: A pioneering FTTP provider, Hyperoptic delivers symmetrical upload and download speeds, making it ideal for heavy internet users, remote workers, and gamers. Their network is primarily in urban developments and apartment blocks.
- Community Fibre: Concentrated in London, Community Fibre offers incredibly fast and reliable full fibre broadband, often at competitive prices, focusing on connecting entire communities directly to their fibre network.
- Gigaclear: Specialising in rural areas, Gigaclear is bringing full fibre broadband to communities previously underserved by traditional providers, offering high speeds and robust connections where they are most needed.
When choosing an alternative, it’s advisable to compare:
- Availability: Check which providers offer service in your specific postcode.
- Speed: Determine the speeds you truly need (e.g., 50Mbps for basic use, 1Gbps for heavy streaming/gaming).
- Pricing: Compare monthly costs, setup fees, and contract lengths.
- Customer Service: Look for providers with a strong reputation for support, as internet issues can be frustrating.
- Transparency: Ensure the provider clearly outlines their Terms & Conditions, Privacy Policy, and cancellation procedures before you commit.
How to Cancel The4thutility.co.uk Subscription
While The4thutility.co.uk’s website does not prominently feature a direct link or detailed guide on how to cancel a subscription, the common industry practices for broadband providers, coupled with the available contact information, offer insights into the likely cancellation process. Given the lack of an explicit cancellation policy on their homepage, it’s crucial for customers to be proactive and understand standard procedures.
General Steps for Cancelling Broadband Services
Most broadband providers, including those in the UK, typically require customers to:
-
Check Contract Details: Before initiating cancellation, it’s vital to review your original contract with The4thutility.co.uk. This document (which should have been provided upon signup) will outline:
- Minimum Contract Term: How long you are tied into the service (e.g., 12, 18, 24 months).
- Early Termination Charges (ETCs): Fees incurred if you cancel before your minimum contract term expires. These can vary significantly depending on the remaining length of your contract.
- Notice Period: The amount of advance notice required before cancellation (e.g., 30 days).
-
Contact Customer Service Directly: This is almost always the required first step.
- Phone Call: The most direct and often required method for cancellation. The4thutility.co.uk prominently displays phone numbers: 0800 066 2833 and 0333 888 4050. Be prepared for a conversation where they might try to retain your business by offering discounts or different packages.
- Written Communication: While a phone call is usually necessary to formally initiate cancellation, following up with an email or letter (if an address is provided) to confirm your cancellation request can be prudent, creating a paper trail. The website does have a “Contact Us” section, which might include an email or contact form.
-
Provide Necessary Information: When contacting them, have your account number, full name, address, and reason for cancellation ready. Artisandelimarket.co.uk Review
-
Confirm Cancellation and Final Bill: Always ask for a confirmation of your cancellation in writing (email or letter). Clarify the exact date your service will cease and inquire about your final bill, including any early termination charges or outstanding balances.
-
Return Equipment: Most broadband providers require the return of their equipment (router, TV boxes, etc.). Failure to do so can result in charges. Ask for clear instructions on how and where to return any leased equipment.
Specific Considerations for The4thutility.co.uk
Given the information on their website, the lack of a dedicated cancellation policy section means customers will largely rely on their customer service team. It’s advisable to:
- Be Persistent: If the initial contact doesn’t yield clear answers, don’t hesitate to ask for escalation or to speak with a supervisor.
- Document Everything: Note down dates, times, names of customer service representatives, and summaries of conversations. This documentation is invaluable if any disputes arise later.
The process of cancelling a broadband subscription can sometimes be complex, especially due to contract terms and early termination fees. Therefore, understanding your specific contract and thoroughly documenting your interactions with The4thutility.co.uk’s customer service will be key to a smooth cancellation.
The4thutility.co.uk Pricing
Based on the information available on The4thutility.co.uk’s homepage, the company emphasizes “ultra-affordable” full fibre broadband and claims “ultra savings” compared to competitors. While specific, granular pricing tiers and a detailed price list are not directly available on the main page, the website uses comparative statements to highlight its value proposition.
Stated Claims and Comparative Pricing
- “Full fibre broadband for less!”: This is a recurring theme, suggesting competitive pricing.
- “Ultra savings”: The website explicitly states, “For example you can save over £170 per year vs BT on a 24 month contract.” This is a significant claim, aimed at directly positioning their pricing against a major incumbent. It also hints at the availability of 24-month contract options.
- “Select package Pick from our range of speed packages to suit you.”: This indicates that there are different speed tiers available, which would naturally correspond to different price points. However, the exact speeds and their respective costs are not displayed on the homepage.
- “UK’s best value full fibre broadband: claim based on comparing our headline new customer full fibre prices in August 2024 to published prices for comparable products on the websites of BT, EE, Plusnet, Sky, TalkTalk, Vodafone, Virgin Media, Hyperoptic, YouFibre, Gigaclear and Community Fibre.”: This marketing claim suggests a broad comparison, implying they are striving to be among the most affordable in the market for new customers.
How to Find Specific Pricing
To get actual, detailed pricing information for The4thutility.co.uk, a potential customer would likely need to:
- Use the “Check availability” postcode checker: This tool is designed to determine if service is available in a specific area. It’s highly probable that after entering a postcode, the website would then display the available packages and their corresponding prices for that location. Broadband pricing is often location-dependent due to network infrastructure.
- Contact their Sales Team: The website provides multiple phone numbers (e.g., 0800 066 2833, 0333 888 4050) for inquiries. Direct engagement with a sales representative would allow for a personalised quote based on specific needs and address availability.
- Initiate the “Buy online” process: While not explicitly detailed, clicking on “Buy a new service” or “Join us now” would presumably lead to a page where different packages and their prices are presented before committing to a purchase.
General Expectations for Broadband Pricing
Broadband pricing in the UK typically involves:
- Monthly Subscription Fee: The core cost of the service.
- Contract Length: Commonly 12, 18, or 24 months. Longer contracts often come with lower monthly fees.
- Setup Fees/Activation Fees: One-off charges that may apply for new connections or equipment.
- Early Termination Charges (ETCs): Fees if you cancel before your contract ends.
- Promotional Offers: Often lower prices for the initial months or a cash back offer for new customers.
The4thutility.co.uk clearly aims to compete on price, positioning itself as a more affordable alternative to established players. However, the lack of immediate, transparent pricing tables on the homepage means potential customers must take additional steps to discover the exact costs, which could be a minor hurdle for some.
The4thutility.co.uk vs. Competitors
When assessing The4thutility.co.uk against its competitors in the UK broadband market, it’s crucial to understand its positioning as a full fibre specialist aiming for affordability and high performance. Unlike many traditional providers that still rely on a mix of copper and fibre, The4thutility.co.uk explicitly focuses on direct full fibre optic cabling to the home (FTTP), which is a key differentiator.
The4thutility.co.uk’s Core Strengths
- Dedicated Full Fibre (FTTP): This is perhaps its biggest advantage. By delivering fibre directly to the premises, The4thutility.co.uk can offer superior speeds (up to 1Gbps, often symmetrical), greater reliability (99.9% reliability claimed), and lower latency compared to Fibre-to-the-Cabinet (FTTC) connections used by many older providers. This means less buffering, faster downloads/uploads, and a more stable connection.
- Affordability Claim: The website strongly markets itself on being “ultra-affordable” and claims significant annual savings compared to major players like BT. If these claims hold true consistently across their packages, it makes them a very attractive option for budget-conscious consumers seeking high performance.
- Focus on Customer Experience: Their “UK Customer Experience Gold Award” and prominent Trustpilot reviews suggest a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction, which can be a key differentiator in a market often criticised for poor customer service.
Comparison with Major Incumbents (BT, Sky, TalkTalk, EE, Plusnet)
These providers largely utilise Openreach’s network, which is rapidly expanding its FTTP footprint but still heavily relies on FTTC for a significant portion of its customer base.
- Speed: While these providers offer FTTP in increasing areas, their standard fibre offerings might not match The4thutility.co.uk’s symmetrical speeds or guaranteed performance. Legacy copper connections (ADSL or basic FTTC) are significantly slower.
- Reliability: Full fibre generally offers superior reliability. While incumbents are reliable, the “last mile” copper often introduces points of failure or performance degradation that FTTP avoids.
- Price: The incumbents often have higher published prices for comparable speeds, though they frequently run promotions and offer bundles (TV, mobile, landline) that might provide perceived value. The4thutility.co.uk aims to undercut them on pure broadband price.
- Availability: Incumbents have much broader geographic coverage due to their established infrastructure, reaching areas where dedicated FTTP providers like The4thutility.co.uk may not yet operate.
- Bundling: Major players often offer extensive bundles (TV, mobile, landline, home security). The4thutility.co.uk appears to be a pure broadband play, which could be a pro for those who don’t want bundles, or a con for those who do.
Comparison with Other FTTP Specialists (Hyperoptic, Community Fibre, Gigaclear)
These are The4thutility.co.uk’s most direct competitors, as they also build and operate their own full fibre networks.
- Network Reach: These providers typically focus on specific regions or types of premises (e.g., Hyperoptic in apartment buildings, Gigaclear in rural areas, Community Fibre in London). The4thutility.co.uk’s specific network footprint would determine its direct competitive overlap.
- Speed & Performance: All these providers offer similar high-speed, reliable FTTP services. The differentiator often comes down to specific package offerings, customer service reputation, and local availability.
- Price: Competition among FTTP specialists can be fierce, leading to competitive pricing. The4thutility.co.uk’s claim of “best value” positions it aggressively in this segment.
- Market Share: These providers are generally smaller than the incumbents but are rapidly growing their market share in their target areas.
In summary, The4thutility.co.uk positions itself as a modern, high-performance, and cost-effective alternative to traditional broadband providers, leveraging the benefits of full fibre technology. Its main challenge, like other FTTP specialists, is expanding its network reach to compete more broadly with the established incumbents who have a pervasive presence across the UK. However, for those within its service areas, it presents a compelling case for faster, more reliable internet at a potentially lower cost.
FAQ
What is The4thutility.co.uk?
The4thutility.co.uk is a broadband service provider in the UK that specialises in offering ultra-fast, ultra-reliable, and ultra-affordable full fibre broadband directly to homes.
Is The4thutility.co.uk legitimate?
Based on the website’s appearance, the presence of UK contact numbers, and Trustpilot reviews, The4thutility.co.uk appears to be a legitimate business operating in the UK broadband market. However, the absence of easily accessible legal documents like Terms & Conditions is a point of concern for full transparency.
What speeds does The4thutility.co.uk offer?
The4thutility.co.uk claims to offer speeds of up to 1Gbps, which they state is “44x faster than standard broadband.”
What is “full fibre broadband”?
Full fibre broadband (FTTP – Fibre-to-the-Premises) uses fibre optic cables all the way from the exchange to your home, offering faster and more reliable internet speeds compared to traditional copper-based connections (ADSL) or hybrid fibre-copper (FTTC) systems.
How reliable is The4thutility.co.uk’s service?
The company claims its full fibre broadband is “99.9% reliable” and states they have received a “UK Customer Experience Gold Award” to support their commitment to dependable service. Adexa.co.uk Review
Does The4thutility.co.uk offer phone or TV bundles?
The website focuses exclusively on full fibre broadband services. There is no mention of traditional landline phone services or TV bundles being offered alongside their broadband.
How can I check if The4thutility.co.uk is available in my area?
You can check availability by using the “Use our postcode checker” tool prominently displayed on their homepage.
How does The4thutility.co.uk compare on price?
The4thutility.co.uk positions itself as an affordable option, claiming “ultra savings” and suggesting customers can save over £170 per year compared to BT on a 24-month contract.
Are there any setup fees with The4thutility.co.uk?
The website does not explicitly detail setup fees on its homepage. You would likely find this information when proceeding through the “Buy online” process or by contacting their sales team.
What kind of customer support does The4thutility.co.uk offer?
The website lists multiple phone numbers (0800 066 2833, 0333 888 4050) and has “Help & Support” and “Contact Us” sections, indicating direct customer service channels. Retirementline.co.uk Review
Does The4thutility.co.uk have a physical store?
The website does not mention any physical retail locations. Their service appears to be primarily managed online and via phone support.
What are the contract lengths offered by The4thutility.co.uk?
While not explicitly stated for all packages, the website mentions a comparison with BT based on a “24-month contract,” suggesting this is one of their available contract terms.
Can I get symmetrical upload and download speeds with The4thutility.co.uk?
Full fibre broadband (FTTP) technology typically supports symmetrical (or near-symmetrical) upload and download speeds. The website’s description of full fibre mentions “synchronous upload and download rates,” implying this capability.
Where can I read customer reviews for The4thutility.co.uk?
The website features testimonials directly from Trustpilot, stating that “Our customers think we’re great, see what they’ve been saying about us on Trustpilot.”
What if I need technical support with my The4thutility.co.uk service?
The website includes “Service Status” and “Knowledge Articles” links under its “Help and Support” section, indicating resources for technical assistance and troubleshooting. Emmabridgewater.co.uk Review
Are the Trustpilot review dates on The4thutility.co.uk accurate?
Some Trustpilot review dates displayed on the homepage are in the future (e.g., May 2025). This is likely a typographical error, but it’s a detail worth noting.
Does The4thutility.co.uk offer a free trial?
The homepage does not mention a free trial for their services.
How do I cancel my The4thutility.co.uk subscription?
The website does not provide a direct link or detailed guide on cancellation on its homepage. Typically, you would need to contact their customer service directly, review your contract for notice periods and early termination fees, and return any equipment.
Does The4thutility.co.uk have a Privacy Policy?
A direct, prominent link to a comprehensive Privacy Policy is not easily discoverable on the homepage or its footer, which is a significant point of concern for transparency regarding data handling.
What is the advantage of choosing The4thutility.co.uk over BT or Virgin Media?
The4thutility.co.uk positions itself as a potentially more affordable full fibre option, offering ultra-fast and reliable service without necessarily bundling additional services. Its advantage lies in potentially lower costs for comparable high-speed, direct fibre connectivity in its service areas. Coverwise.co.uk Review
|
0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one. |
Amazon.com:
Check Amazon for The4thutility.co.uk Review Latest Discussions & Reviews: |
Leave a Reply