Introduction to the Issue

In a significant move to enhance digital connectivity across the UK, BT, through its subsidiary Openreach, is advocating for amendments to the Renters Rights Bill. The proposed changes aim to allow automatic upgrades to full fibre broadband in rental properties, addressing a critical issue that has left many homes without access to high-speed internet due to difficulties in obtaining permission from landlords or freeholders.

The Renters Rights Bill, currently under consideration, primarily focuses on enhancing tenants' rights in England, including the right to request pets in rental properties. However, it does not address the pressing need for modern broadband infrastructure. Openreach's push for legislative changes highlights the importance of ensuring that all UK residents, particularly those in multi-dwelling units (MDUs), have access to reliable and fast internet services.

The Challenge of Broadband Upgrades

One of the major challenges in upgrading broadband infrastructure in older residential properties is securing permission from landlords or freeholders. This process can be time-consuming and often results in delays or outright refusals, leaving tenants without access to modern fibre broadband. Openreach estimates that over 1,040,000 flats across the UK are at risk of missing out on faster broadband due to these access barriers, with approximately 780,000 of these properties facing no coverage from any provider[1][3].

Key Issues with Current Legislation

• Difficulty in Identifying Landlords: In many cases, it is challenging to identify or contact the relevant landlords or freeholders, which hinders the upgrade process.
• Obstruction by Landlords: Some landlords may be unresponsive or obstructive, further complicating efforts to upgrade broadband services.
• Digital Divide: The lack of access to high-speed internet exacerbates the digital divide, particularly affecting those living in MDUs.

Proposed Amendments to the Renters Rights Bill

Openreach is suggesting amendments to the Renters Rights Bill that would allow for automatic broadband upgrades in certain circumstances. This proposal includes:

• Automatic Upgrade Rights: Permitting network operators to upgrade broadband infrastructure without needing explicit consent from landlords in cases where it is impractical to obtain permission.
• Reasonable Consent: Ensuring that any consent required from landlords cannot be unreasonably withheld, similar to the provisions for requesting pets in rental properties[3].

Benefits of the Proposed Amendments

• Economic Growth: Faster and more reliable broadband can foster economic growth by enhancing remote work capabilities and digital access.
• Property Value: Properties with gigabit connectivity often carry a price premium, benefiting both tenants and landlords.
• Digital Inclusion: Reduces the digital divide by ensuring that all residents have access to modern internet services.

Concerns and Challenges

While Openreach's proposal aims to address a significant issue, there are concerns that need to be balanced:

• Competitive Fairness: Rivals have expressed concerns that automatic upgrade rights could give Openreach an unfair competitive advantage, as it already has extensive infrastructure in place[3].
• Property Owner Concerns: Landlords may worry about potential damage, insurance liabilities, and security issues associated with fibre upgrades[3].

The Universal Service Obligation (USO) for Broadband

In addition to the proposed legislative changes, the UK's Universal Service Obligation (USO) for broadband provides another avenue for improving internet access. The USO ensures that eligible addresses can request a decent broadband connection, defined as a minimum download speed of 10 Mbps, if they do not have access to such a service from any provider[2].

Eligibility for USO

To be eligible for a network upgrade under the USO:

• Lack of Access: You must not have access to a decent and affordable broadband connection.
• No Public Funding: The area must not be scheduled to receive a publicly funded broadband upgrade within the next 12 months.
• No 4G Alternative: You cannot get a connection through a 4G hub[2].

Conclusion

BT's push for automatic broadband upgrades in the Renters Rights Bill highlights the need for legislative support to ensure that all UK residents have access to modern internet services. While challenges and concerns exist, addressing these issues is crucial for bridging the digital divide and fostering economic growth. As the UK continues to roll out full fibre broadband, ensuring equitable access will remain a key priority.