Getting a it support company over the Christmas period
**TL;DR**
Finding IT support over Christmas is challenging but possible. Book early, expect higher costs, and consider managed services. Many companies offer emergency cover during holidays. Check availability in November and have a backup plan ready.
## Introduction
Getting IT support over Christmas can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Many IT companies reduce staff during the festive season, leaving businesses scrambling when problems arise. However, it doesn’t have to be a nightmare.
The good news? Many UK IT support companies offer round-the-clock holiday cover. You just need to plan ahead and know where to look. This guide’ll help you find reliable IT support during the Christmas period without paying over the odds or waiting days for help.
## When Should You Book IT Support Before Christmas?
**The earlier you book, the better your chances of getting coverage.** Most IT companies confirm their holiday availability in October and November. Don’t wait until mid-December.
Contact potential IT support providers by early November at the latest. This gives you time to compare their Christmas packages and arrange cover. Many firms offer special holiday support contracts that run from December through early January.
Check whether they’re offering 24/7 support or limited hours. Some companies provide emergency-only cover during Christmas week. Others maintain full staffing levels. Knowing this matters if your business can’t tolerate downtime over the holidays.
## What’ll Christmas IT Support Cost You?
**Expect to pay 20-40% more for cover during Christmas week.** Emergency callout fees often double or triple during peak holiday periods. A standard £80-150 callout might cost £200-300 on Christmas Day itself.
Many businesses choose managed IT services instead of pay-as-you-go support. These contracts lock in prices regardless of the season. You’ll pay a fixed monthly fee, which can work out cheaper over time. Some managed providers include unlimited callouts during the year.
Ask about their cancellation policies too. If you’ve already sorted your IT issues by mid-December, can you pause coverage? Good providers’ll be flexible about holiday arrangements.
## Which Types of IT Support Offer Christmas Cover?
**Large managed IT service providers almost always offer holiday cover.** They’ve got bigger teams and can rotate staff over Christmas. Smaller local IT companies might not have the capacity.
National firms like Zenith, Computacenter, and other established providers typically guarantee Christmas support. They’ve got dedicated holiday response teams. However, local one-person operations might close completely.
Check whether they’ll provide remote support or need someone on-site. Remote fixes are faster and cheaper than paying someone to visit your premises on Boxing Day. Most issues can be solved remotely anyway, from software problems to network errors.
## What Should Your Backup Plan Include?
**Always have a contingency in case your main IT provider’s unavailable.** Even the best companies get overwhelmed during peak periods. You need a Plan B.
Keep contact details for 2-3 alternative IT support companies. Save them somewhere accessible, not just in your work emails. Share them with your team so someone can ring if needed.
Stock essential supplies before Christmas. Extra cables, power banks, and replacement hard drives can get you through minor issues. Write down your IT passwords and backup procedures. Keep this information in a secure but accessible place, just in case.
Test your backup systems before December. Make sure your data backups work properly. If disaster strikes on Christmas Eve, you’ll be grateful you prepared in advance.
## Conclusion
Finding IT support over Christmas requires planning and forward thinking. Start looking in October, confirm availability by November, and understand the costs involved. Many UK IT companies offer excellent holiday cover if you book early enough.
Don’t leave your business vulnerable during the festive season. Arrange your IT support now and enjoy Christmas worry-free. Find an IT support company near you by searching our free UK directory today.
## FAQ
**Q: Can I get same-day IT support on Christmas Day?**
A: Yes, but it’s expensive. Emergency cover on Christmas Day costs significantly more. Book this in advance with providers offering 24/7 holiday coverage.
**Q: What if my chosen IT company doesn’t offer Christmas support?**
A: Contact them in October and ask about their options. Many’ll recommend partner companies or suggest managed services. Always have backup providers lined up.
**Q: Is remote IT support available over Christmas?**
A: Absolutely. Most issues can be fixed remotely. Remote support is faster and cheaper than on-site visits, especially during holidays.
**Q: How much notice do I need to give?**
A: Give at least 6-8 weeks’ notice before Christmas. Contact companies by early November to secure their holiday slots and compare packages.
**Q: Should I switch to managed IT services for Christmas cover?**
A: It’s worth considering. Fixed monthly fees often include holiday cover. Compare long-term costs against pay-as-you-go emergency support during peak periods.