How to Check Mobile Signal Coverage at a New Address

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A mobile signal can change from one network to another, between the front and back of a house, and from outdoors to indoors. Before moving, compare independent predictions for each network you use and test your own phone inside the property where possible.

Check the exact location

Use Ofcom's mobile checker with the postcode or map location. Compare voice and data results for each major network, paying attention to indoor and outdoor predictions. A general claim that an area “has 5G” is not enough if you need reliable calls in a ground-floor study.

UKHomePack presents available Ofcom predictions in its property reports and dedicated mobile coverage checker. The information is useful for comparison but is not a guarantee of reception.

Compare networks separately

Networks use different masts, frequencies and planning assumptions. Your current provider may be weak where another is strong. Check every network you might realistically use rather than assuming the largest advertised coverage will suit the precise address.

If more than one household member depends on mobile service, compare their networks and devices. Wi-Fi calling may help indoors, but it depends on compatible equipment, account settings and a working broadband connection.

Indoor and outdoor coverage are different

Walls, foil-backed insulation, coated glazing, basements and the position of the room can weaken a signal. A prediction of good outdoor reception does not promise the same result inside. Upper floors and windows may perform differently from the centre of the building.

Flats can add further variables: height may improve line of sight, while reinforced concrete or neighbouring buildings may interfere.

Test during a viewing

With permission, make a call and load a webpage in the rooms where reception matters. Check the kitchen, bedrooms, home office and garden rather than relying on the hallway. Repeat if the first viewing is unusually quiet, because network load changes.

The bars on a phone are not a standardised engineering measure. Test the activities you need: a voice call, messages, ordinary browsing and, if relevant, a short video call.

Look beyond 5G

5G availability can be useful, but dependable 4G may matter more for everyday use. Check voice coverage as well as data, and remember that some phones display a technology icon even when performance is limited.

If you plan to use mobile broadband as the main home connection, ask the network about address-specific availability, expected speeds, data limits, router placement and external antennas. Test before committing to a long contract.

Understand prediction limits

Ofcom periodically updates its checker with predictions supplied by mobile network operators. It notes that real-life experience may differ. Terrain, buildings, vegetation, weather, device capability and network demand all play a part.

This means a map is a sensible first check, not proof that a particular room will receive a reliable service.

Make a connectivity plan

For important home-working or care needs, avoid relying on one connection. Check fixed broadband availability, Wi-Fi calling and a second network as possible backup. Confirm whether the property has suitable places for a router and whether mobile reception works during a broadband outage.

Frequently asked questions

Which mobile network is best at my new address?

There is no single best network everywhere. Compare predictions for the exact location, then test likely networks indoors before choosing.

Does 5G mean faster service throughout the house?

No. Coverage, capacity, frequency, building materials and device capability affect performance. Good 4G can sometimes be more consistent.

Can I test without changing contract?

Consider a pay-as-you-go SIM or eSIM where available, subject to device compatibility and provider terms. Test in the rooms and at the times that matter.

Sources and further reading

Ofcom mobile and broadband checker Ofcom mobile checker frequently asked questions Check broadband information for an address