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STEP

Internet: Sorting Your Contract When Moving

Transfer your contract or cancel penalty-free. Moving often triggers a special right of termination.

WHAT TO DO

What is it and when to do it?

When you move, you need to decide whether to transfer your internet contract to the new address or cancel it penalty-free. Notify your provider within 6 weeks of moving in — this is the critical window for the Sonderkündigungsrecht under §57 TKG 2021. Miss it and the right lapses.

Where and how much does it cost?

A contract transfer is usually free and can be requested via your online account or by phone. For new contracts, compare offers on Check24.de or Verivox.de. Note: older buildings (Altbau) may have limited infrastructure — ask the provider about the available technology (DSL, cable, Glasfaser) before signing.

Common mistakes

👨🏻‍💻
Max recommends:

Moved and forgot to notify the provider — 6 weeks passed and the Sonderkündigungsrecht was gone. Now paying for two addresses until the contract ends. Notify your provider in the very first week after moving in.

👩🏼‍💼
Lea recommends:

Signed up for Glasfaser at the new place without checking the building — only DSL infrastructure was available, installation took 3 months. Before signing, call the provider and ask: 'Is there an active connection point at this address?'

Next step →

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the Sonderkündigungsrecht and how do I use it? ▾

Under §57 TKG 2021, if your provider cannot offer service at your new address, you can cancel without penalty with one month's notice. Notify your provider in writing (or through your online account), stating the new address and move date. The provider must confirm the cancellation within 2 weeks.

My provider says it covers my new address — can I still cancel? ▾

If the provider can technically deliver service, the Sonderkündigungsrecht does not apply. Instead, request a Umzugsmeldung (contract transfer) — most providers do this free of charge, though installation may take 4–8 weeks.

How long until I get connected after moving? ▾

For a contract transfer: usually 4–8 weeks depending on the provider and available infrastructure. For a new contract: anywhere from 2 to 12 weeks. Bridge the gap with a mobile hotspot — Telekom, Vodafone and O2 all allow tethering at no extra cost.

OFFICIAL SOURCES