Your essential guide to broadband

22  January 2024

Brought to you by DIRECT CONNECT

Property owners and tenants often overlook internet connections when searching for a new home, but it can quickly become an issue after moving in.

However, being able to answer misguided questions like ‘how fast is the internet here’ will continue to make its way up the list of importance as our connected lives keep evolving. It will become vital to ‘post-move satisfaction’ that mover needs are met with a seamless internet connection.

Property owners and tenants often overlook internet connections when searching for a new home, but it can quickly become an issue after moving in.

What is the nbn?

The nbn is Australia's nationwide infrastructure project designed to provide high-speed internet access to homes and businesses across the country. It replaces the ageing copper-based ADSL and cable networks, offering a more reliable and faster internet connection.

It’s crucial for real estate agents to understand that the nbn isn’t an internet service provider (ISP). Instead, it’s responsible for the physical network infrastructure that delivers broadband services to homes and businesses. ISPs, on the other hand, are responsible for offering various broadband plans and services over the nbn network.

As an agent, you should be aware that nbn services come in different technologies, which can affect the quality and speed of the broadband service. The gold standard is FTTP, as it’s the most reliable and supports the fastest speeds. By year’s end nbn will have upgraded 75% of the 12.5 million properties in Australia with FTTP. With a plan to have FTTP available in 90% of premises, this means these properties will be capable of Gigabit (or 1000 megabits per second) speeds by the end of 2024. Hot tip: A quick address search on the nbnco.com.au homepage can tell you everything you need to know about a particular property or scan the QR code on the next page to contact the Direct Connect Partner Support Team and to access more helpful broadband information.

Don’t leave it to the last minute

Most people tend to think about their broadband connection at the last minute, but it’s important to note that some ISPs can require anywhere from three to 30 days to establish a new connection for movers.

To avoid any delays or complications, it’s best to inform an ISP as soon as possible so they can initiate the process – the earlier, the better.

A great way to get your tenants to remember is to arrange for your broadband connection to be set up at the same time as your electricity connection. This is where Direct Connect can help!

Owner obligations

When representing property owners, it's essential to inform them about their responsibilities regarding the nbn:

nbn connection: Property owners must ensure that their property is nbn-ready and that the necessary infrastructure is installed. If the property is not nbn ready, owners will need to request an nbn installation from their chosen ISP. This may involve the installation of nbn equipment inside the property.

Existing contracts. Owners should review any existing contracts with ISPs, as some may have specific terms and conditions related to nbn installation or services. These contracts may need to be transferred or cancelled when the property changes hands.

nbn equipment: Property owners are responsible for maintaining any nbn equipment installed on their property. It's important to keep this equipment in good working order to ensure uninterrupted nbn services for the tenant.

Tenant obligations

For real estate agents representing tenants, it's crucial to inform them about their responsibilities when it comes to the nbn:

Selecting an ISP. Tenants have the freedom to choose their preferred ISP and nbn plan, provided that the property is nbn-ready. This means that tenants can choose a broadband plan that suits their needs and budget. Agents can assist tenants in finding the right ISP and plan for their new home.

nbn installation. If the property is not nbn-ready or if the tenant wishes to change ISPs, they will be responsible for arranging the nbn installation through their chosen ISP. Tenants should also make sure that any existing nbn equipment on the property is in proper working order when they move in.

Contract terms. Tenants should be aware of the terms and conditions of their chosen ISP's contract. This includes contract duration, data limits and any associated costs. Agents can help tenants understand these terms and make informed decisions.

Direct Connect is your trusted partner

Understanding the nbn and its implications for property owners and tenants is vital for real estate agents in today's digital landscape – and Direct Connect is here to help.

With Direct Connect by your side, you can offer unparalleled assistance to property owners and tenants, ensuring that their nbn and broadband needs are met seamlessly. Our prime partners are amongst Australia's most trusted, like Aussie Broadband. We also partner with a range of others, including Origin Broadband, Belong and Superloop.

Our free-to-use and no-obligation service is designed to make the process of moving a breeze. This means your clients have a trusted moving partner looking after all their connections.

Understanding the nbn and its implications for property owners and tenants is vital for real estate agents in today's digital landscape – and Direct Connect is here to help.

As a real estate agent, you can leverage Direct Connect’s resources and we can take care of all the advice your clients need, enhancing your reputation and ensuring these connections go ahead without a hitch!

Since 2004, Direct Connect has helped move over 1 million households across the country. Our expert team can help you move from just about anywhere, whether it’s to the next suburb or interstate. Our goal is to make your move easy. We’ve partnered with Australia’s leading real estate agents and moving service providers to offer you a free no-obligation service, organising hassle-free connections and moving solutions.

Direct Connect

Most people tend to think about their broadband connection at the last minute, but it’s important to note that some ISPs can require anywhere from three to 30 days to establish a new connection for movers.

Follow this link to contact the Direct Connect Partner Support Team and to access more helpful broadband information.

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