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Phones & Tablets

Why is there no dial tone on a landline?

Reviewed by John Porter, Editor ·

Answer

Test with a different handset plugged directly into the master socket. If that also has no tone, the fault is on the line and your provider needs to fix it. If the second handset works, the original phone or its cabling is at fault, which you can sort yourself.

Before you start: stop right away if…

  • Do not open the customer side of a master socket if you are unsure. Damage inside it can become chargeable.

Follow these steps

  1. Try a corded phone at the master socket

    Plug a corded handset directly into the master socket, bypassing extensions and adapters.

    You should see: You hear a tone, or confirm the line is dead.

  2. Interpret the result

    No tone at the master socket points to a line fault for the provider. A working tone there means the fault is in your own extensions or handset.

    You should see: You know who needs to fix it.

  3. Check the cordless base power

    If using a cordless phone, confirm its base has mains power. Cordless handsets do not work without it.

    You should see: The base is powered and the handset registers.

  4. Remove filters and extensions

    Disconnect any broadband filters, splitters, and extension leads, then test again with just the phone and one cable.

    You should see: The tone returns, identifying the faulty accessory.

  5. Report it to the provider

    If the master socket is dead, report a line fault and say you have tested a corded phone there. Mention any recent service change.

    You should see: A fault is raised without further basic testing.

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Extra tips

What to look for: Whether the problem started alongside a broadband change, since a provider migration can leave the phone service unprovisioned while broadband works.

Before you change anything: Have a corded phone if possible — cordless handsets need mains power and will not work in a power cut, which can look like a line fault.

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