From order to activation — what really happens behind the scenes
Every business wants its new leased line live yesterday. But while these connections deliver guaranteed speeds and 99.999 % uptime, the build process behind them can be more complex than many expect.
Understanding each stage — and the factors that influence installation time — helps set realistic expectations and keeps your project running smoothly.
Typical Leased Line Installation Timeline
Most leased lines take between 30 and 90 working days from order to activation.
The exact timescale depends on your location, existing fibre infrastructure, and how much new cabling is required.
Here’s the typical sequence:
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Order validation – Your provider checks address data, capacity, and network routes.
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Site survey – Engineers assess access points and cable paths.
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Wayleave or permissions – Landlord or third-party approval if fibre crosses private land.
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Build & installation – Fibre ducts, chambers, and cables are installed.
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Testing & handover – Performance is verified before going live.
Each stage relies on accurate information and fast approvals — which means your input can significantly reduce delays.
1. Existing Network Infrastructure
If fibre is already present in your building or nearby ducts, installation can be lightning-fast.
But if engineers must dig new routes or cross third-party land, expect additional survey work and permissions.
Urban areas with established fibre footprints (London, Manchester, Birmingham) typically see shorter lead times than rural or industrial zones that require new builds.
2. Wayleave Agreements and Permissions
A wayleave is legal permission to install cabling through land or property not owned by the provider.
Delays here are common — especially in multi-tenant offices, retail parks, or serviced buildings.
Tip: Start this process early. Ask your landlord or managing agent to expect the request and approve it promptly.
Connect2 often liaises directly with landlords to fast-track these sign-offs.
3. Local Authority and Highways Work
When new ducting must cross public land, your provider needs local-authority permits for excavation and traffic management.
These permits are time-bound and weather-dependent, so early planning and flexibility help keep schedules on track.
Providers like BT Openreach, Virgin Media Business and CityFibre each have dedicated civils teams to coordinate this stage, ensuring compliance and safety.
4. Building Access and Internal Cabling
Once fibre reaches your premises, engineers need access to internal risers, comms rooms, or basement points.
If your building has strict security hours or requires supervision, coordinate site access well in advance to avoid missed appointments.
Providing clear cable routes internally can save several days during installation.
5. Incorrect or Missing Information
Small errors on order forms — such as postcode mismatches, suite numbers, or contact details — can cause unexpected delays.
At Connect2, every order is verified manually before submission to eliminate these bottlenecks.
Remember: accurate data equals faster delivery.
6. Network Capacity or Excess Construction Charges
Sometimes the nearest exchange or cabinet lacks spare capacity.
If additional equipment or ducting is required, your provider may raise Excess Construction Charges (ECCs).
These don’t just add cost — they add time — so always review site survey results promptly to authorise works without delay.
7. Provider Coordination and Dependencies
Most leased lines involve multiple network parties — the carrier, the local network operator, and your connectivity partner.
A well-managed project ensures these hand-offs are seamless.
At Connect2, our provisioning team tracks every milestone across all carriers, ensuring work orders don’t sit idle between departments.
How to Speed Up Your Leased Line Installation
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Order early – Don’t wait for your current contract to expire; start the process 90 days before.
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Prepare building access – Nominate keyholders and ensure internal cabling routes are clear.
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Approve wayleave requests quickly – Keep landlords in the loop.
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Provide accurate site details – Address, contact, and floor location.
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Choose an experienced partner – Experts like Connect2 coordinate everything for you.
Proactive communication can easily shave 10–20 working days off a standard build.
Why the Wait Is Worth It
While a 90-day project may sound long, the result is a dedicated fibre circuit built exclusively for your business — capable of handling massive data loads with guaranteed performance and uptime.
Unlike broadband, you’ll never compete for bandwidth again.
A few weeks of preparation deliver years of reliability.
Final Thoughts
Installation times vary, but your experience doesn’t have to.
With Connect2, every leased line order is fully project-managed, with updates at every milestone — from survey to activation.
We’ll handle wayleaves, liaise with carriers, and ensure your connection goes live as quickly as possible.
Explore our complete Leased Lines Guide.
FAQ
How long does leased line installation take?
Typically between 30 and 90 working days, depending on site access, permits, and fibre availability.
What causes leased line delays?
The most common reasons are wayleave approvals, local-authority permits, and incomplete site information.
Can installation be sped up?
Yes. Ordering early, approving paperwork quickly, and partnering with an experienced provider significantly reduce lead times.
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