The Telecommunications Infrastructure (Leasehold Property) Bill 2019-21 will update the 2017 Electronic Communications Code and streamline the process by which network operators may gain access to multi-let residential properties.
The problem of unresponsive landlords preventing access to a property has been cited as a barrier to meeting the Government’s commitment to the roll out of faster more resilient broadband across the UK by 2025.
Emma Cordiner at Conexus Law said: "Though it is difficult to argue against the motivation for the bill, some private landlords may see it as bordering on the draconian. However, timely responsiveness and collaboration by landlords should avoid forceful operator action, so now (as ever) would be the time for all landlords to adopt good habits and pay closer attention to any operator requests for access to install infrastructure."
"At this stage, landlords need to have the bill on their radars, and in spite of the bill, might do well to plan the implementation of broadband infrastructure policies for their buildings, with one eye on a forthcoming need to be more responsive to operator requests. Ultimately a well-managed property with the best of broadband capability will only ever be an attractive prospect to tenants," she added.
