Openreach has issued a sharp warning to UK communications providers. Thousands of homes and businesses may lose phone service in January 2027. The risk comes from the final shutdown of the PSTN, the UK’s legacy telephone network.
The company says the deadline will not move again. In its letter to providers, it stated: “This letter serves as confirmation that the January 2027 deadline will not be moved.”
The switch-off affects traditional copper-based landline services. These systems have supported voice calls for decades. However, operators now want customers on digital alternatives. These include broadband-based voice and VoIP services.
For the industry, the move offers a cleaner future. Digital voice platforms are easier to manage and upgrade. They also support modern service bundles and cloud-based communication tools. Businesses can gain better flexibility from these platforms.
However, the transition still carries real risk. Some users still rely on older lines. These may support alarms, lifts, payment terminals, or remote monitoring systems. If providers miss these cases, disruption could follow quickly.
Openreach told providers to contact remaining customers now. It wants them moved before the deadline arrives. Customers who fail to migrate may lose service. Others could move to Emergency Voice Access, known as EVAc.
This service offers a short-term safety net. It allows basic voice calls after the deadline. Yet Openreach warned it cannot replace full business-grade connectivity.
“While EVAc will provide a temporary safeguarding service for basic voice connections, it is not built to support the connectivity needs of a modern business,” the letter added.
That warning matters for IT teams and telecoms managers. A basic voice line may not support normal operations. It may also fail to meet service expectations for larger sites.
The timing also creates pressure. Engineering capacity could tighten as January 2027 approaches. Providers that wait may struggle to secure appointments. Customers may then face rushed migrations or unexpected downtime.
“Businesses that delay the move risk significant disruption, operational challenges and significant unnecessary costs. And with the industry entering the final phase of migration, waiting too long could also make it harder to secure the engineering support needed before the deadline,” the letter continued.
Cost is another factor. Openreach said wholesale rental prices for traditional lines rose on 1 October 2026. These charges have roughly doubled against 2025 levels. Another rise is due on 1 February.
The message to providers is direct. Delays now increase technical and financial exposure. Early migration gives customers more control and fewer surprises.
The letter concluded: “Time is running out – the PSTN migration is now a critical priority. The window for a managed and orderly transition is closing, and providers who haven’t already taken action need to immediately do so to mitigate risk and protect their customers.”
For telecoms teams, the final phase has clearly begun. The priority now is simple. Identify every legacy line, test replacement services, and move customers before January 2027.
