31 January is less than 90 days away: what small businesses need to do now
The UK landline network will shut on 31 January 2027. Firms must check phone systems and any equipment that still relies on copper lines.
Openreach says about 300,000 UK business premises still use copper‑based telephone lines. The Public Switched Telephone Network will be retired on 31 January 2027 and replaced by digital services such as VoIP. Most providers can move a standard phone line with little disruption and keep the existing number.
The change can affect more than the desk phone. Card‑payment terminals, security alarms, fire alarms, CCTV, door‑entry units and emergency lift phones may also depend on the old line. If these devices are not upgraded, they could stop working when the switch‑off occurs.
Businesses should contact their telephone or broadband provider now to confirm migration dates and equipment needs. They also need to audit any connected hardware, arrange battery backup for digital phones and consider newer systems that let staff answer calls from mobiles.
Why it matters to your business
A sudden loss of phone service or malfunctioning equipment can halt sales, disrupt bookings and breach health‑and‑safety compliance. Small firms cannot afford downtime caused by a forgotten landline dependency.
Addressing the issue now avoids a last‑minute scramble, costly emergency replacements and potential loss of customers. It also offers a chance to adopt more flexible digital phone solutions that support remote work.
What to do on Monday
- Call your phone or broadband provider this week to confirm your migration schedule and whether new hardware is required.
- Audit all devices that use the landline, payment terminals, alarms, CCTV, door entry, lift phones, and note any that need replacement or re‑configuration.
- Arrange battery backup or an alternative call‑handling method for critical lines to ensure continuity if power or broadband fails.
Sources
Reported by techround.co.uk.