TalkTalk announces 9.5% rise in home phone line rental

TalkTalk has followed BT in announcing an imminent hike in its home phone charge.

From October 1st 2011, the internet service provider will raise its monthly line rental by £1.20 to £13.80, representing an increase of 9.5 per cent.

However, the company has launched a new landline package that offers subscribers the opportunity to cover a year's rental upfront at a cost of £114, which effectively equates to paying £9.50 per month.

Commercial director of TalkTalk Tristia Clarke said the deal represents a "simple way" for consumers to get the best possible price for their home phone.

"Our customers have told us that they love getting great value and they want long-term confidence about their outgoings," she added.

Regardless of the new package, the increase in line rental represents more bad news for consumers, coming shortly after BT revealed it is planning to increase its call charges by as much as five per cent from December 3rd.

The telecoms giant is also set to charge 70p more for line rental, taking its monthly rate to £14.60.

Defending the announcement, managing director of BT's consumer division John Petter claimed the UK telecoms market is still "extremely competitive".