topic How long does it take for 'external' works? in Broadband

How long does it take for 'external' works?

Monica161 — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 13:28:30 GMT

Hi,

My service was supposed to be installed early this week, however, when the engineer came in, there was an issue with the infrastructure, and I received a notification saying that there are some external works needed to be able to get broadband.

It has been couple of days and no news so far, need internet for work, and no follow up or anything. Does anyone know who long does this take to get resolved?

thanks.

Re: How long does it take for 'external' works?

GD1 — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 13:34:02 GMT

@Monica161 No one here can give you timescales as it will all depend on the type of work needed.

Re: How long does it take for 'external' works?

TimmyBGood — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 15:06:31 GMT

@Monica161

Unfortunately, somewhere between weeks and months if, for example, a trench is needed on a footpath, roadway or someone else's private property, because while Openreach has limited statutory rights to excavate they do also have to provide advance notification to relevant parties such as the Local Authority and the utility companies.