Electronic Communications Code expertise
The Electronic Communications Code governs how telecoms operators install and maintain apparatus on private land. Since the 2017 reforms, network providers have been granted wider statutory rights, increasing risk for landowners.
We help clients understand how the Code affects their property and commercial objectives. We provide clear, pragmatic advice tailored to each site, helping you avoid common pitfalls while ensuring your interests are protected.
Our experience enables us to balance statutory rights with commercial realities, supporting informed decision-making across lease negotiations, redevelopment plans, and asset management.
Strategic advice for businesses & tenants
We advise occupiers on lease exit strategies, occupational liability management, and dilapidations risk. Our work includes strategic advice on lease surrenders, break options, assignments, sublettings, and lease re-gearing, as well as the assessment and negotiation of dilapidations claims.
We work closely with legal advisers to ensure alignment with contractual and statutory frameworks, including the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954, and to support commercially efficient exit strategies aligned with wider corporate objectives.
Redevelopment & vacant possession
Telecommunications apparatus may benefit from statutory security of tenure under the Electronic Communications Code, including a right to remain in occupation following the expiry of contractual agreements. Recovering possession can involve statutory notice periods of up to 18 months and, where terms are contested, tribunal proceedings that can result in significant cost, delay, and uncertainty.
We advise property owners and developers on Code rights, statutory processes, and strategic options for securing vacant possession, working closely with legal advisers throughout. Our advice is focused on managing statutory risk, minimising programme delay, and reducing exposure to professional and litigation costs.