Construction, restocking and unreturned-equipment fees: the internet charges nobody mentions
The monthly price gets the attention. These one-time fees show up when you sign up, move or cancel, and some of them run into hundreds of dollars.
Three fees catch people out: construction charges when an address needs new line work (Quantum Fiber lists a $1,500 threshold), restocking fees when you return equipment (Frontier charges $50), and unreturned-equipment fees when you don't (up to $150 per device at Frontier, $500 on its 5 and 7 Gig gear, and up to $300 at Verizon). Return equipment on time, get a receipt, and ask about construction before you order.
The fees, by provider
Construction charges
Most homes already have the wiring a provider needs. When they don't, because the house is set back from the road, the line has to cross a field or the building needs new wiring, some providers pass on the cost. Quantum Fiber's terms set a threshold of $1,500 before construction charges apply. Ask whether your address needs any construction before you schedule installation, and get any quote in writing.
Restocking and unreturned-equipment fees
When you cancel, the provider wants its modem, router, gateway or extenders back, usually within a set number of days. Miss the deadline and you are billed for each device. Frontier also charges a $50 restocking fee on disconnect even when you return everything.
- Return equipment the way the provider tells you to (store, UPS drop-off or prepaid box) and keep the receipt or tracking number.
- Photograph every device and its serial number before you send it.
- Check your final bill and dispute any equipment charge with your receipt.
- If you own your modem, you have nothing to return; see stop renting your modem.
Installation and activation
Self-install is usually free. Professional installation costs $99–130 at providers that charge for it, though it is often waived online or with a coupon. Business installs tend to cost more. See understanding your internet bill for monthly fees, and the true cost of internet over 3 years for how one-time fees add up.
How to avoid them
- Ask about construction and installation fees before you order.
- Order online, where installation is often free.
- Bring your own modem and router where the provider allows it.
- When switching, check whether the new provider covers your old provider's fees; see how to switch providers.
- Quantum Fiber, Frontier, Verizon, Google Fiber, Comcast Business and Astound terms and offer pages, checked Oct 2026
- Our provider reviews
Prices and terms change often; confirm with the provider before you order. How we research
Questions
What happens if I don't return my internet equipment?
You are billed for each unreturned device. Frontier charges up to $150 per device ($500 on 5 and 7 Gig equipment), and Verizon up to $300 per device. Return it on time and keep the receipt.
What is an internet restocking fee?
A charge for processing returned equipment when you cancel. Frontier charges $50 on disconnect.
Do I have to pay for construction to get internet?
Only if your address needs new line work beyond what the provider covers. Quantum Fiber, for example, sets a $1,500 threshold before construction charges apply. Ask before you order.
Can I avoid installation fees?
Usually. Self-install is free at most providers, and professional installation is often free when you order online or use a coupon code.