Leased Lines for Construction Sites: Reliable Internet on the Move
In the construction industry, connectivity is more important than ever. Whether you’re managing multiple contractors on your construction sites, updating cloud-based project management tools, or running on-site security cameras, a fast and stable internet connection is essential- even on temporary or remote sites!!
Join us as we explore construction site broadband solutions, focusing on the growing need for temporary leased line UK installations. We’ll look at how leased lines work on mobile or pop-up locations, compare key providers, and offer practical tips to keep your site connected.
Why Do Construction Sites Need Internet Access?
Construction sites today are no longer tech-free zones and typical connectivity needs include:
- Accessing cloud-based project management tools (such as Procore or Autodesk)
- Live-streaming site CCTV and security feeds
- Uploading progress photos or drone footage
- Facilitating VoIP or video calls with off-site stakeholders
- Enabling staff to work from portable cabins with full internet access
- Supporting contractors with remote device access
A standard mobile hotspot or shared broadband simply doesn’t provide the reliability or speed many projects require.
What Is a Temporary Leased Line?
A temporary leased line is a high-speed, uncontended internet connection installed for a limited period at a non-permanent site, such as a construction zone or mobile office.
Features include:
- Symmetrical speeds (equal upload/download)
- Guaranteed uptime (via SLAs)
- Optional failover with 4G/5G backup
- Scalable bandwidth from 10Mbps to 1Gbps+
- Setup time ranging from 10 to 30+ working days (location-dependent)
Some providers also offer pre-terminated fibre containers or portable leased line boxes, making deployment quicker.
Leased Line vs Mobile Broadband for Construction
|
Feature |
Leased Line |
Mobile Broadband (4G/5G) |
|
Speed |
10Mbps – 10Gbps (symmetrical) |
10Mbps – 300Mbps (asymmetrical) |
|
Contention Ratio |
1:1 (uncontended) |
Shared network |
|
Uptime SLAs |
99.99% uptime, 4-hr fix |
No guarantees |
|
Latency |
Low, stable |
High, variable |
|
Best For |
Cloud tools, VoIP, VPN, CCTV |
Light browsing, short-term use |
our verdict: Use mobile broadband for short-term access while waiting for leased line delivery, or combine the two for resilience.
Top UK Providers Offering Construction Site Broadband
| Provider | Temp Leased Line Option | Mobile Backup | SLA Fix Time | Deployment Speed |
From/Month*
|
|
|
Yes | Yes | 5 hours | 15-30 working days | £399 |
|
|
Yes | Yes | 4 hours | 10-20 days | £400 |
|
|
Yes | Yes | 5 hours | 10-25 days | £450 |
|
|
Yes | Yes | 6 hours | 7-10 days | £350 |
|
|
Yes (rural focus) | Yes | 8 hours | 10-20 days | £399 |
|
|
Yes | Yes | 4-6 hours | 7-14 days | £375 |
How to Get a Leased Line for Your Construction Site
Step 1: Survey your site
- A provider will conduct a site survey to confirm the availability of fibre infrastructure and permissions.
Step 2: Choose the most suitable contract
- Most temporary lines come in 3, 6, or 12-month contracts (be sure to check minimum terms and early termination fees!)
Step 3: Schedule your installation early
- Delays due to wayleave agreements, digging permissions or engineer shortages are common, so book as early as possible.
Step 4: Add resilience
- Include a 4G/5G failover router to ensure uptime in case of outages or network failures.
Step 5: Monitor and manage usage
- Use a managed leased line service to track traffic, usage trends, and performance.
Benefits for Construction Firms
- Remote collaboration: Teams can access plans, CAD files, and scheduling tools in real-time.
- Security monitoring: Leased lines support full-resolution CCTV streaming.
- Uptime for on-site admin: Portable offices run smoothly with uninterrupted internet.
- Compliance: Many construction tenders now require digital management systems.
Alternatives to Temporary Leased Lines
If a complete leased line isn’t available or viable, consider:
- 4G/5G routers: Quick to deploy, limited bandwidth
- Satellite broadband: Useful for ultra-remote sites (but high latency)
- Wireless point-to-point (P2P): Good for sites near a fibre-ready building
- FTTP business broadband: Faster install than leased lines, but shared connection
Conclusion – Leased Lines for Construction Sites
A temporary leased line UK solution is the gold standard for construction site connectivity, as digital tools and remote access become core parts of the building industry. With symmetrical speeds, guaranteed uptime, and support for CCTV, VoIP, and cloud apps, construction site broadband solutions should be planned like any other part of the build.