Flat owners across England and Wales are set to gain new rights to request faster broadband connections as part of a major overhaul of the leasehold system. The Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Bill, confirmed in the King's Speech, will introduce a legal right for leaseholders to demand fast, reliable broadband, a request that cannot be unreasonably refused by freeholders.
Ending the Digital Divide for Leaseholders
Currently, many flat owners are blocked from accessing gigabit-capable internet because freeholders refuse or delay permission for installation, even when broadband providers are ready to upgrade. The government estimates that over half a million flats lack gigabit connectivity, leaving residents stuck with slow connections. The new law aims to empower leaseholders to secure essential digital infrastructure.
Under the proposed legislation, individuals will be able to request a connection to a public gigabit-capable electronic communications network with download speeds of at least 1,000 Mbps. This right is designed to ensure that flat owners are not left behind in the digital age.
Government Reaction
Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook stated: "This Government made a clear and unambiguous commitment to bring the feudal leasehold system to an end. The Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Bill marks the beginning of the end for the leasehold system that has tainted the dream of homeownership for so many." He added that the bill will transform homeownership for millions of leaseholders and modernise property law.
UK Telecoms Minister Liz Lloyd emphasised: "Fast, reliable broadband should not be a luxury in modern life. We want everyone to be able to get online – whether to apply for jobs, build a business, or stay connected with loved ones. These new laws will give leasehold flat owners a legal right to request internet upgrades for their home without being ignored by the freeholder."
Additional Reforms
Beyond broadband rights, the Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Bill will provide new protections against unfair ground rent charges and create easier routes for existing leaseholders to switch to commonhold ownership. The government describes this as a significant step towards ending the leasehold system, which has long been criticised for its feudal characteristics.
The reforms are expected to benefit millions of leaseholders across England and Wales, ensuring that modern essentials like high-speed internet are accessible to all.
