Monthly website plan or one-off build: which is right for your business?

One-off build. You pay for the design and build, usually in stages (for example half to start and half before launch). After launch, you still need hosting, your domain name renewed each year, and someone to make changes, either yourself or a paid designer.

Monthly plan. You pay a fixed amount each month. The build, hosting, domain name and an agreed amount of updates are included. There is often a minimum term, because the designer does most of the work at the start and the monthly payments cover it over time.

For typical prices of each option, read our guide: How much does a small business website cost in the UK?

This is the part people most often get wrong, so ask before you sign.

• Your domain name should always be registered in your business's name, whichever way you pay. If a designer registers it in their own name, moving away later can be difficult.
• Your content (logo, photos, text) is yours.
• The website itself: with a one-off build you normally own it once it is paid for in full. With a monthly plan, the designer usually owns the design and code while you are on the plan, and you can buy it outright later.

• Monthly plans spread the cost and include changes, but have a minimum term and usually a fee if you leave early. Check what happens if you want to leave, change plan or buy the website.
• One-off builds have no ongoing commitment to the designer, but every change after launch is either your job or a new bill.

A monthly plan is usually the better fit if:

• You are starting out or would rather not pay a large amount upfront
• You want updates, hosting and the technical side handled for you
• You want one predictable cost each month

A one-off build is usually the better fit if:

• You want to own the website outright from the start
• You have someone to look after hosting and updates, or rarely need changes
• You need something bespoke that does not fit a standard plan

1. Whose name will the domain name be registered in?
2. What is included each month, and what costs extra?
3. Is there a minimum term, and what does it cost to leave early?
4. Can I buy the website outright, and for how much?
5. What happens to my website if I stop paying?

Is a monthly website plan more expensive in the long run?

Over several years you may pay more in total than for a one-off build, but the monthly price also covers hosting, your domain name and updates, which a one-off build charges for separately. Compare the total of everything over the same period, not just the build price.

Can I switch from a monthly plan to owning my website?

With our plans, yes: after the 12-month minimum term you can buy your website for a one-off fee of £250 (Starter) or £500 (Premium). You can also buy it earlier by paying the exit fee as well.

What happens if I stop paying for a monthly plan?

With our plans, the website is taken offline if a payment is still unpaid after 7 days, and nothing is deleted. Your domain name and content stay yours. The full process is in section 6 of our Website Plan Terms.

Do I own my domain name on a monthly plan?

With us, always. We register it in your business's name and give you what you need to move it whenever you ask, once the domain registry allows a transfer.