People preparing to move house have been warned that they may face a large bill to set up a phone service for their new property.

Price comparison website uSwitch.com said that many Brits have had to fork out for exit fees to leave a phone contract when moving home or had to find the money to pay their provider to come to connect their new property.

In total, the firm claims that £44 million has been spent this year by movers trying to arrange their landline phone service.

Steve Weller, head of communications at uSwitch.com, said: "It''s unacceptable that loyal phone customers are effectively being thrown back onto the streets when they decide to move home."

He recommended that people moving into a new property should make sure they do their research to find out if they will have to foot the bill for any costs relating to their phone line so they do not get a nasty surprise.

According to the mortgage advice firm Alexander Hall, people should also be aware of the other costs of moving, including removal expenses and estate agency fees.