Fiber in an apartment building: why 60 percent of residents must cooperate
When an apartment building is connected to fiber, it is never done separately for each individual home. The network runs through the entire building. That is why Open Dutch Fiber requires a minimum number of residents to participate. In many apartment buildings, that minimum is 60 percent. Only when enough residents give their consent can the network be safely and fully installed. We asked Teresa Moriana, Team Lead Relationship Management at ODF, to explain why this is necessary and how residents can give their consent.
Why does 60 percent of the residents have to agree to the fiber connection?
In an apartment building, the fiber cable runs through common areas and sometimes through apartments next to, above, or below each other. This means that multiple apartments must give access in order to install the network.
Teresa explains why this agreement is so important: “We need multiple apartments to complete the route. If too few people participate, the network will remain technically incomplete, and we will not be able to properly connect the building.”
With at least 60 percent agreement, ODF can:
● create the cable route through the entire building;
● connect homes efficiently one after the other;
● prevent technicians from having to return multiple times;
● prepare everyone in the building for fiber.
Without that 60%, this will not be possible, and installation may be delayed or not proceed at all.
How do you, as a resident, give your consent for a fiber connection?
You don't have to fill out extensive forms. Giving your consent is very easy. Residents can sign up via:
● a letter or email they receive from ODF;
● a digital link where you indicate that you want to participate;
● information evenings or meetings in the building.
Teresa has seen that this works well in practice: “Once residents understand why their consent is needed, they sign up quickly. It's only a small step, but it's necessary to connect the entire building.”
Consent is always non-binding. You are not committed to anything; you only choose a provider later if you actually want to use fiber internet.
How can you stay informed about progress?
Throughout the entire process, Open Dutch Fiber keeps residents and homeowners' associations informed every step of the way. This starts in the preparatory phase and continues until construction begins. Residents receive information through various channels, such as
● letters and emails;
● posters or announcements in the building;
● information evenings or joint consultations.
In addition, residents can check the progress themselves at any time via the postcode check. This allows you to see whether your building is already in preparation, whether sufficient approval has been given, and when the next step will be taken.
Once at least 60 percent of residents have given their approval, all residents will receive notification that installation can begin.
Teresa emphasizes how important this clarity is: “Residents want to know where they stand. That's why we always explain what's going to happen, when we'll be visiting, and what that means for them.” This ensures that everyone remains well informed and knows exactly where their building stands in the process.
Want to know if your building is already on the schedule?
Want to know when your building will be getting fiber? With the zip code check, you can see right away. You'll immediately see if your apartment building is included, if the fiber connection is free of charge, and when you can choose your own subscription. That way, you'll have clarity at a glance.
About Teresa Moriana
Teamlead Relationship Management
This article was written in collaboration with Teresa Moriana. Teresa Moriana is Team Lead Relationship Management at Open Dutch Fiber. She guides property owners, managers, and residents throughout the entire fiber process. From initial approval to connection in the homes, Teresa ensures that everyone knows exactly what is happening.
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