Connectivity guide · 8 min read
Broadband and mobile coverage checker: what to verify before moving
A postcode-level signal is only the beginning. Check the exact address, available broadband technology, predicted speeds, indoor and outdoor mobile coverage, and each network separately before you exchange or sign a tenancy.
Last verified 10 September 2026 against the official publications listed below.
On this page
How should I check broadband and mobile coverage?
Use Ofcom's official checker, enter the postcode and inspect broadband availability or mobile coverage. For broadband, confirm the exact address where offered. For mobile, compare networks and distinguish indoor from outdoor predictions rather than accepting one generic coverage badge.
See available Ofcom connectivity evidence alongside the property's other official records.
Run a connected HomeCheck →Broadband: availability is not the same as your final speed
Ofcom describes its displayed speeds as the fastest estimated speeds predicted by network operators in the area. Actual availability and performance at a property can vary, so confirm the address with a provider before ordering or relying on the result.
| Check | Why it matters | How to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Full fibre and copper-based services behave differently | Check the address result and provider availability |
| Predicted speed | A prediction is not a guaranteed measured speed | Ask the provider for the service estimate and minimum commitment |
| Installation | A listed service may still need engineering work | Ask about lead time, wayleaves and installation status |
| In-home Wi-Fi | Coverage inside depends on layout and materials | Test rooms or plan a mesh/access-point setup |
Mobile and 5G: compare every network
Ofcom's mobile checker presents predicted 4G and 5G availability by network and separates indoor and outdoor coverage. A prediction can be affected by building materials, terrain, device capability and local demand.
- Check the network you actually use and realistic alternatives.
- Compare indoor and outdoor results.
- Inspect voice and data needs, not just a 5G label.
- Test at the property on the relevant devices where practical.
- Consider coverage in the garden, parking area and home-working room.
A practical connectivity checklist before moving
Check the exact address
Neighbouring homes can have different networks, cabinets or installation status.
Shortlist providers
Confirm products, predicted speeds, contract terms and installation dates directly.
Test mobile indoors
Use the rooms that matter, especially a home office and ground floor.
Record the evidence
Save dated checker results and provider confirmations before committing.
What a red or unavailable result means
Unavailable data is not proof that no service exists, while a positive prediction is not proof of installation or performance. Treat it as a prompt to verify with networks and providers. mypropclear keeps unavailable evidence explicit rather than converting it into a false zero score.
In summary
- Check the exact address whenever possible.
- Predicted speed is not a guarantee.
- Compare every mobile network and indoor/outdoor coverage.
- Verify service and installation directly before relying on it.
People also ask
Does a broadband checker guarantee speed?
No. Ofcom says displayed figures are operator predictions; actual availability and performance at the property can vary.
Why can neighbouring houses get different broadband?
Properties can differ by network connection, line route, cabinet, build status or installation constraints.
Does 5G availability mean strong indoor signal?
No. Check the indoor prediction separately and test where practical; building materials and devices affect reception.
Which mobile network is best at my postcode?
There is no universal winner. Compare Ofcom's network-specific predictions for the places and indoor conditions that matter to you.
Now calculate it
Combine available official broadband and mobile evidence with the wider property record.
Check this property's connectivity →Official sources
Every figure in this guide is transcribed from these published pages. Always confirm against the source before filing or signing anything.
- Broadband and mobile coverage checker — Ofcom
- Ofcom broadband availability checker
- Ofcom Map Your Mobile
Guidance only. mypropclear explains published rules and how they apply to figures you provide — it is not personalised tax or legal advice.
Common questions people asked after reading
Does a broadband checker guarantee speed?
No. Ofcom says displayed figures are operator predictions; actual availability and performance at the property can vary.
Why can neighbouring houses get different broadband?
Properties can differ by network connection, line route, cabinet, build status or installation constraints.
Does 5G availability mean strong indoor signal?
No. Check the indoor prediction separately and test where practical; building materials and devices affect reception.
Which mobile network is best at my postcode?
There is no universal winner. Compare Ofcom's network-specific predictions for the places and indoor conditions that matter to you.
