What’s actually happening?
BT is turning off the old copper landline network – known as the PSTN – by 31 january 2027. That means traditional phone lines and broadband that run over those lines will stop working.
If your business still uses a landline, fax machine, alarm system, or card machine connected via PSTN, you’ll need to switch to digital alternatives.
Why does it matter if you don’t have IT support?
For businesses with an IT team, this might be a routine job. But if you don’t have someone technical in-house, it can feel like a bit of a minefield.
We’ve seen lots of small businesses – especially builders merchants, tradespeople, and office-based teams – still using older systems simply because they’ve always worked. But after January 2027, they won’t.
And the tricky bit? You won’t get a warning beep. The line will just stop.
How to check if you’re affected
Here’s a quick checklist:
- Do you still use a traditional landline number?
- Is your broadband running over a phone line (ADSL or FTTC)?
- Are you using older phone handsets plugged into a wall socket?
- Do you have an alarm or payment machine that connects to the phone line?
If you said yes to any of these, you’ll likely need to act.
What are your options?
The most common switch is to a cloud phone system (VoIP) – where your calls run over the internet instead of a copper wire.
That might sound complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. The right provider should:
- Set everything up for you
- Keep your number(s)
- Offer support you can actually get hold of
- Explain things in plain English
And yes – you can still have desk phones if you want them.
What does a smooth switch look like?
For most of the small businesses we work with, the move looks like this:
- We check what you’re using now
- We help you pick the simplest setup that’ll work for your team
- We set it all up (remotely or in person)
- You keep working – no downtime, no drama
One customer put it simply: “We didn’t even notice the change — everything just carried on, only better.”
Don’t leave it too late
With the deadline fast approaching, networks are getting busier – and good engineers are getting booked up.
Even if you’re not ready to make a change today, it’s worth having the conversation. That way, you’re not panicking in November when your phones stop working.
Need a hand?
If you’re not sure what the BT switch-off means for your business – or you’d just rather someone explain it without the jargon – we’re happy to help.
-We work with builders merchants, trades, and small businesses across the UK (especially NMBS members). No call centres. No ticketing systems. Just proper support.