Internet when moving house in Germany: your rights and the right order

Start checking the new address several weeks before you move. Whether your existing contract moves with you, is changed or can be ended depends on coverage and on the contract. Keep any commitments in writing.

In short: In Germany, your internet contract generally moves with you – without a new minimum term. The provider may charge no more than for a new connection. If it cannot supply your new address, you may cancel with one month's notice (section 60 TKG). Report your move several weeks in advance so that there is no gap without internet.

Your rights when moving

Situation	What applies
Provider can supply your new address	Contract continues there unchanged, without a new minimum term
Cost of the move	A reasonable fee, no more than for a new connection
Provider cannot supply your new address	Cancellation with one month's notice, also effective from your moving-out date
You want a new provider although the old one could supply	No special right to cancel – cancel normally or wait for the term to end

Your moving checklist

Tell your provider about the move early and check the new address at the same time. Don’t rush to cancel yourself if you plan to switch provider and keep your phone number.

• Report your new address and moving-in date
• Check coverage and technology
• Get the activation date confirmed
• Organise the router, access details and returns

Timeline: when to do what

1. 6–8 weeks before: Check availability at your new address and report the move to your provider with your moving-in date.
2. 4 weeks before: Have the activation date confirmed in writing; arrange a technician appointment if needed.
3. 1–2 weeks before: Organise a temporary solution, such as mobile internet or a 5G router.
4. Moving-in day: Connect the router, enter your access details and test the speed.
5. Afterwards: Return rented equipment from the old connection on time and check your first bill.

Plan a buffer

A guaranteed activation date is worth more than an optimistic estimate. If being reachable at all times matters to you, plan a temporary mobile solution – with reception and data allowance checked in advance.

Moving as a reason to switch?

A move is a good time to review your tariff – different technologies and providers may be available at your new address. If your minimum term ends soon, the comparison is worth a look. Our guide to switching provider explains how to switch without an outage; the data volume calculator shows how much data you need for the transition.