New FTTP Order - MDU

Hi all,

We've been with BT for about two years on VDSL/FTTC broadband via the BT Master socket. Speeds are decent (~9MB/s download), but our contract ended, so we explored other providers.

CityFibre recently expanded to our area, and we found a Zen package we liked. Since Zen operates on both Openreach and CityFibre, I assume installation would be straightforward? The BT wholesale checker shows no issues for a 1-stage install, which I assume applies to altnets too.

However, as we live in a ground-floor apartment within an MDU (10-ish or so units), I worry the process might take longer. Zen assured us they’ll handle everything, including contacting the building's PM company. We already have landlord approval.

Post-survey, would they install fiber to a central closet (which I think our building does have) and then provide an ONT for our flat? I know this depends on several factors.

Zen estimated a July install date—likely subject to MDU-related delays. Any insights on what to expect? Happy to link street view if that helps.

Thanks

Edited by bitterwinter (Wed 26-Mar-25 22:10:50)

The BT wholesale checker shows no issues for a 1-stage install, which I assume applies to altnets too.

No the two things don’t necessarily follow.

You are obviously aware that Zen use both Openreach and CF but haven’t stated which one they will be using (Vodafone for example default to CF when both OR and CF are available) , if it’s CF then the return from the BTw checker is irrelevant .

If it were the Openreach network Zen were intending to use (less likely in my opinion) , the return from the BTw checker contains more information than ‘single stage’ or ‘KCI2 assure’ ….you could post the entire return (if it’s Openreach ) , I’m unaware if CF have any similar resource.
PIA , the process that allows CF to leech onto Openreach infrastructure has limited use with conventional MDU , if the MDU were so small that it’s served in the same way as neighbouring SDU’s (overhead from poles for example) as a ground floor unit , permission would be required from the flat above as any overhead would attach at height and run down ‘their’ wall to your flat below , but most MDU , even small ones are not overhead .

Edited by Iniltous (Thu 27-Mar-25 15:35:11)

Openreach and CityFibre are wholly separate networks, as noted, so the checkers do not cross correlate *at all* irrespective of the fact that Zen offers service on both.

CityFibre provides a high-level checker on their website. It basically tells you whether your property is RFS (ready for service) according to their database. If not ready then it simply defaults to you being able to enter your details for future notification…

Openreach checkers are more granular as evidenced by the BT Wholesale checker.

The key thing with any MDU install is the landowner / freeholder is on board and ensuring wayleaves are agreed with the network. These are required for each individual network as you’d imagine. It can be a long and drawn out process just to set expectations.

Edited by Pheasant (Thu 27-Mar-25 14:12:26)

Thanks for the insight everyone - it's much appreciated. We got a text from CityFibre this morning saying they will be doing the installation; so it seems even though Openreach is avalible here for a 1 stage install Zen have decided to go down the CF route instead, which does seem a bit odd to me? They said because we're the first in our building to place an order it will take some time which obviously makes sense.

Edited by bitterwinter (Thu 27-Mar-25 19:03:51)

In reply to a post by bitterwinter:

it seems even though Openreach is avalible here for a 1 stage install Zen have decided to go down the CF route instead, which does seem a bit odd to me?

CityFibre's wholesale pricing will almost certainly be significantly cheaper than Openreach. You'll also get a symmetrical service.

In which case it’s odd that CF and the other Alt Nets are continually bitchi*g about Openreach wholesale pricing , claiming it’s artificially low to stifle the competition

In reply to a post by behuk:

In reply to a post by bitterwinter:

it seems even though Openreach is avalible here for a 1 stage install Zen have decided to go down the CF route instead, which does seem a bit odd to me?

CityFibre's wholesale pricing will almost certainly be significantly cheaper than Openreach. You'll also get a symmetrical service.

Makes sense. Part of me wishes I ordered with BT instead given Stage 1 is apparently just a single engineer visit, but hopefully waiting for CF will be worth it.