UK Flat Owners Gain New Rights to Demand Faster Broadband
Leaseholders across England and Wales will soon have the power to request gigabit-capable broadband, a move aimed at bridging the digital divide and accelerating national connectivity goals.
The UK government is taking a significant step toward its ambitious plan for national renewal by addressing long-standing challenges in delivering high-speed broadband to flats. For years, leasehold flat owners have lacked a formal mechanism to request upgrades, often resulting in slower speeds and frustrating delays. New proposals, unveiled as part of a public consultation, seek to rectify this imbalance by granting leaseholders the right to request a gigabit-capable connection from their freeholder – a request that cannot be unreasonably refused.
Addressing the Challenges of Flat Broadband Rollout
Currently, the process of upgrading broadband infrastructure in blocks of flats is often hampered by logistical hurdles and a lack of coordination. Many leaseholders find themselves “hamstrung by slower speeds,” according to government sources, due to difficulties in securing agreement for building-wide upgrades. This is particularly acute in older buildings or those with complex ownership structures.
The proposed changes aim to remove these barriers, streamlining the process and making it easier for residents to access the high-speed connectivity essential for modern life – from remote work and education to streaming entertainment and staying connected with family and friends. The measures will specifically apply to leaseholders, with leaseholder landlords empowered to submit requests on behalf of renters.
The consultation also seeks to understand the specific challenges faced by renters in accessing reliable broadband within leasehold properties. This indicates a commitment to ensuring equitable access across all tenures.
A Key Component of the 2032 Connectivity Goal
This initiative is a crucial component of the UK government’s broader strategy to achieve 99% gigabit broadband coverage across the nation by 2032. The consultation, which runs until February 16, 2026, will inform any future legislation needed to facilitate the rollout of gigabit-capable broadband in flats. The outcomes of the consultation will be published following its conclusion.
“Measures like these are about fairness and improving the playing field for consumers, giving them better broadband connectivity,” stated Liz Lloyd, the UK minister for telecoms, in a recent announcement. “Whether you’re in a block of flats, a house or a rural property, we want everyone to have access to the fast, reliable broadband needed for modern life. These proposed measures would help deliver better connectivity for properties that face additional challenges to gigabit broadband roll-out and will ensure all UK families can benefit from the digital age.”
Complementary Efforts to Tackle Digital Exclusion
The announcement of these new rights for flat owners comes on the heels of the launch of a £11.7 million Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund. This fund, a cornerstone of the government’s Digital Inclusion Action Plan, will support 80 local projects focused on improving access to devices and digital skills training.
According to government figures, 1.6 million people in the UK currently lack access to the internet due to a combination of factors, including a lack of devices, connectivity, or digital literacy. Furthermore, one in four UK residents struggle to use online services.
“Being online is something many of us take for granted, but for millions it could mean a new job opportunity, quicker access to healthcare or a lifeline to the local community,” Lloyd added, underscoring the importance of bridging the digital divide and ensuring that all citizens can participate fully in the digital economy.
