Most full fibre installations are completed within 5-10 working days of signing up, though timing depends on whether fibre already runs to your property.
If fibre is already present at your address: Installation is often quicker, sometimes just requiring activation and a router setup — occasionally even without an engineer visit.
If fibre needs to be run to your property for the first time: This can take slightly longer, particularly in areas where the fibre network is still being built out street by street. Your coverage checker result should indicate expected timelines for your specific address.
What happens during the engineer visit:
- Running or connecting the fibre line into your property (through an existing entry point where possible)
- Installing the ONT (Optical Network Terminal) — a small box that converts the fibre signal
- Connecting and testing your router
- Confirming your speeds are live and stable before the engineer leaves
Do you need to be home? Yes, typically for the full visit, which usually takes a few hours depending on the complexity of the install.
What can cause delays:
- High demand periods (engineers fully booked)
- Access issues (e.g. shared building infrastructure requiring landlord permission)
- Underground ducting work needed to bring fibre to a new-build property
Tip: Book your installation as early as possible once you know your move-in date, especially in areas with high demand for appointments.