Ofcom launches BT probe over alleged overcharging

Ofcom has launched an investigation into BT over allegations they may have overcharged business customers when installing high-speed telecoms lines.

The watchdog has said BT provided information that could have breached regulations to protect small firms receiving hefty up front costs.

In May 2014 new regulations were introduced that means BT must pay the first £2,800 of excess construction costs for installing cables and technology.

Ofcom said, “Excess construction charges (ECCs) are charges levied by BT to recover the costs of customer-specific network construction required to extend BT’s existing network out to where the customer requires the new connection.”

Ofcom added, “BT has provided Ofcom with information indicating that it may not have correctly applied the ECC exemption to a number of relevant business connectivity orders since the beginning of the ECC exemption regime.

“Having considered the information provided by BT, we have decided to open an investigation to examine whether there are reasonable grounds to believe that BT has failed to comply with its obligations.”