The new Code is anticipated to come into effect in Spring 2017.
Under the new regulations, rents will in future be based on the underlying value of the land to the landowner, rather than the value it represents to the communications provider, or what their intended use of the land is. Rents will instead be calculated on the basis of what a “willing buyer would pay a willing seller” and consider the value of the land as if it were undeveloped and with the benefit of planning permission only. Any equipment proposed or already constructed must be ignored. This is likely to lead to downward pressure on rents.
Furthermore, should a telecoms company decide to upgrade their site or allow third parties to use it, they may do so once the new Code comes into effect without having to pay any additional rent and without the need to obtain permission from the landlord. Landowners may object to any proposal on grounds of the impact additional equipment may have, or if they face any ‘additional burden’ as a consequence the works. According to the proposed Code, 'Additional burden' could mean anything that “has an additional adverse effect on the [landowner's] enjoyment of the land, or [which] causes [them] additional loss, damage or expense”. Any disputes in relation to the Code will be heard by specialist tribunals.
We will be happy to advise landowners with telecoms equipment on their land, on leases that have either ended and are holding over, or are due to within the next two years. We would recommend that landowners take action now to negotiate a new lease or agreement, as once the Bill has been ratified the communications companies will hold the advantage.