We think switching to a leased line can give you unparalleled dedicated, high-speed internet with unmatched reliability and security.
But, we also know that many companies are surprised by the installation costs, which can vary significantly depending on things like your location, provider, and required infrastructure.
So, how much should you expect to pay for leased line installation, and how can you avoid hidden fees? Today, our guide will break down typical costs, influencing factors, and cost-saving strategies.
How Much Does Leased Line Installation Cost?
Leased line installation costs depend on several factors, including existing infrastructure and contract terms.
| Installation Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Standard Installation (Fibre-ready sites) | Usually free with a 36+ month contract |
| New Fibre Installation (Short Distance) | £500 – £2,000 |
| New Fibre Installation (Long Distance) | £2,000 – £10,000+ |
| Excess Construction Charges (ECCs) | £1,000 – £20,000+ |
Factors That Influence Installation Costs
Your location, and whether you have any existing infrastructure.
- Urban areas have lower costs due to existing fibre networks.
- Rural locations on the other hand have higher costs due to extra cabling and infrastructure work.
- An easy way to remember this is that longer distances increase costs.
📌 What do we recommend? Check if fibre infrastructure is already installed in your area to estimate potential costs!
Excess Construction Charges (ECCs)
ECCs apply when significant work is needed (such as installing new fibre ducting or digging roads)
✔ Common ECC scenarios:
- No existing fibre access to the building.
- Need for street digging, ducting, or pole installation.
- Specialist engineering work required.
📌 What do we recommend? Request a site survey before signing a contract to assess potential ECC costs upfront!
Consider your contract length & provider incentives
General rule of thumb here is:
✔ 12-month contracts – higher upfront installation costs.
✔ 36-60 month contracts – many providers offer free installation for long-term agreements.
✔ Government grants – some businesses qualify for subsidies like the Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme.
📌 What do we recommend? Remember that a longer contract often reduces or eliminates installation costs!
How to Avoid Hidden Fees When Installing a Leased Line
Get a full site survey done before agreeing to anything!
Because a pre-installation survey will assess whether your site requires:
✔ New cabling or ducting.
✔ Roadworks or permissions from local authorities.
✔ Additional costs that might not be included in your initial quote.
📌 What do we recommend? Always request a free site survey to prevent unexpected charges.
Ask for a breakdown of your installation fees
Not all costs are clearly outlined in initial quotes! So ask your provider to specify:
✔ Installation costs (standard vs. non-standard).
✔ ECC fees (if applicable).
✔ Router and equipment charges.
✔ Additional connection fees.
📌 What do we recommend? ALWAYS request a full breakdown to avoid surprises.
Negotiate installation discounts
Providers often have promotions or incentives, even if they don’t publically announce it. so look for:
✔ Free installation on a 3-5 year contract.
✔ Discounted setup fees for high-speed plans (1Gbps+).
✔ Waived ECCs for long-term commitments.
📌 What do we recommend? If switching providers, check if they offer a buyout of your existing contract.
Check for government funding & business grants
The UK Government offers subsidies for businesses upgrading to gigabit-capable connections.
✔ Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme – Up to £3,500 off installation costs for eligible businesses.
✔ Regional grants – Some local councils offer connectivity funding.
📌 What do we recommend Check with your provider to see if you qualify for funding assistance.
Consider Alternative Connectivity Options
If full leased line installation is too expensive, you could always consider:
✔ Ethernet over FTTC (EoFTTC) – which is a hybrid solution, lower costs, fast speeds.
✔ 5G business broadband – which is a wireless alternative, minimal installation.
✔ Point-to-point wireless leased lines – Which avoids ground-based infrastructure costs.
📌 What do we recommend? That you ask providers if alternative solutions can reduce installation costs – always worth a shot!
Comparing Installation Costs Across UK Leased Line Providers
| Provider | Typical Installation Fees | Free Installation on Long Contracts? |
| BT Business | £500 – £2,500+ | Yes, on 36-60 month contracts |
| Virgin Media Business | £500 – £1,500+ | Yes, on 36-60 month contracts |
| Vodafone Business | £400 – £2,000+ | Yes, on 36-month contracts |
| TalkTalk Business | £200 – £1,500+ | Yes, on 36-month contracts |
| Colt Technology Services | £1,000 – £5,000+ | Yes, on 36-60 month contracts |
Our takeaway on reducing leased line installation costs
✔ Check if fibre is already available at your premises.
✔ Request a full site survey to uncover potential ECCs.
✔ Negotiate free installation with long-term contracts.
✔ Explore government funding options to reduce costs.
✔ Consider alternative solutions like EoFTTC or wireless leased lines.
📌 What do we recommend? A little planning can save thousands on leased line installation.
While leased line installation costs vary, businesses can avoid hidden fees and reduce upfront expenses by comparing providers, negotiating contracts, and exploring funding opportunities. By planning ahead, your business can secure high-speed, dedicated internet at the best possible price.
Get a Quote Today
Looking for the best leased line installation deals in the UK? Compare providers today and cut costs while upgrading your business connectivity!
Read more about leased lines below:
| Leased Line Costs |
| Leased Line or Business Broadband? |
| Leased Line Providers |
| What is a Leased Line? |
| Leased Line Speeds |
| Leased Line Installation Cost |