A leased line is one of the best investments you can make for your business connectivity — but many companies underestimate how long it can take to install one, and the leased line installation timeline can be quite vague. Don’t worry, understanding the complete leased line installation process, typical lead times and common causes of delay can help you plan better and avoid disruption.
Join us as we explore the leased line installation time UK businesses should expect in 2025.
How Long Does Leased Line Installation Take in the UK?
The standard installation timeline for a leased line in 2025 is between 45 and 90 working days from the order date.
However, timelines can vary based on:
- Location (urban installs are often faster)
- Network availability
- Need for civil engineering (digging, ducting)
- Permissions (wayleave agreements)
Typical Stages of a Leased Line Installation Timeline
| Stage | Time Estimate | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Order Submission | Day 0 | Contract signed and submitted |
| Desk Survey | 5-10 working days | Initial check of network feasibility |
| On-site Survey | 10-20 working days | Engineer visits premises to assess works |
| Wayleave Negotiation | 20-40 working days | Permission sought from landlords if needed |
| Civil Engineering Works | 30-60 working days | Digging, laying ducts and fibre |
| Final Setup and Activation | 5-10 working days | Fibre spliced, router configured, service goes live |
Note: Many of these activities can overlap, but any single delay (e.g., wayleave) can halt the entire process.
What Causes Leased Line Delays?
1. Wayleave issues
If your leased line installation involves crossing or using private property (for example, if you’re based in an office block), you need a wayleave — a legal permission agreement with the property owner.
Delay potential: High — Landlords can take weeks or months to approve paperwork.
2. Civil engineering works
If fibre ducts or poles aren’t available in your building, Openreach or another network operator must build them. This often means digging pavements or roads and securing local authority permits.
Delay potential: Moderate to High — Road works require council permits; lead times depend on local regulations.
3. Network availability
If you’re based near existing fibre infrastructure, install times are shorter. If not, extensive network extension work may be required.
Delay potential: Moderate
4. Customer site readiness
Delays can also happen if businesses are not prepared internally:
No access to comms rooms
Lack of power points for equipment
Incomplete building works
Delay potential: Low to Moderate
UK Providers and Average Installation Times (2025)
| Provider | Average Installation Time | Notes |
| 60-90 working days | Wide national reach but thorough wayleave checks |
 | 50-70 working days | Faster in urban locations |
| 60-80 working days | Dependent on regional network availability |
| 55-75 working days | SME-focused, good communication during installs |
| 60-90 working days | Strong SLAs once live |
| 30-50 working days | Very quick installs inside London |
Remember that timelines may vary depending on the nature of the site and whether additional civil work is required.
How to Speed Up Your Leased Line Installation
- Start your wayleave early: As soon as you order, speak with your landlord or property manager.
- Prepare your premises: Make sure network cabinets, power supplies, and access routes are ready for engineers.
- Work with experienced providers: Choose ISPs who offer dedicated project managers to shepherd the process.
- Choose pre-lit buildings if possible: Some newer commercial buildings are already fibre-enabled.
- Communicate clearly: Respond promptly to surveys, paperwork, and installation queries.
What Businesses Should Plan For
- Backup connectivity: Keep an existing broadband or 4G/5G service active until the leased line goes live.
- Clear internal timelines: Align your IT teams and office moves with realistic installation expectations.
- Budget for delays: Always allow a buffer period in your project timelines.
Conclusion – Leased Line Installation Timeline
A leased line is a significant upgrade for any UK business, but installation isn’t instant. In 2025, leased line installation time UK estimates remain 45-90 working days, depending on network access, civil engineering needs, and permissions.
You can significantly reduce the chance of unexpected delays by understanding the full leased line setup 2025 process and acting early on factors like wayleaves and premises readiness.
Planning is essential — and working with experienced, communicative providers will make the journey smoother.