Multi-Occupancy Electricity Connections Guide

What is a Multi-Occupancy Building?

A multi-occupancy building is any property split into multiple homes or business units. This could include:

• Residential blocks of flats
• Student accommodation
• Houses converted into multiple apartments
• Commercial buildings with several businesses under one roof

In these cases, each unit needs its own safe and independent electricity supply, which makes the connection process more complex than for a single home.

What is a Building Network Operator (BNO)?

A Building Network Operator (BNO) is the party responsible for the internal electricity network inside a multi-occupancy building. Their role covers the wiring and distribution from the main intake position through to each meter.

Having a BNO in place is essential because the external Distribution Network Operator (DNO) will not usually connect individual flats or businesses directly. The BNO setup ensures:

• Each unit can choose its own energy supplier
• Occupiers aren’t tied into one contract
• The building has a safe and reliable internal distribution network

Typically, meters are housed in a plant room or communal area to make reading and maintenance straightforward.

What you need before applying for a connection

To apply for a new multi-occupancy electricity connection, several things should be ready:

1. Addresses registered – Each unit must be registered with the local council and appear on the Royal Mail database.
2. Correct capacity design – A qualified electrician should determine the required supply size, often under the G98 or G99 generation process.
3. Site plans & drawings – Showing where meters, intake rooms and cabling routes will be located.

Once this groundwork is complete, you can begin your connection application.

The application process – step by step

1. Initial application – Submit site details, drawings and load requirements.
2. Design & costing – Engineers prepare a plan and quotation for the full installation.
3. Approval & payment – Once accepted, this forms your BNO connection agreement.
4. Installation – The internal network, metering and connections are carried out to industry standards.
5. Handover – On completion, each occupier can choose their own supplier.

Common challenges and considerations

Multi-occupancy electricity connections often involve additional factors, such as:

• Increased supply capacity – Conversions may need a bigger incoming supply to meet demand.
• Access & permits – Road closures, footpath works or third-party land access may add time and cost.
• Legal rights – Easements or wayleaves may be required for cabling across land.
• Metering arrangements – Decide early on if each unit needs an individual meter or if submeters will be used.

Why professional project management helps

While you can coordinate this process yourself, many landlords and developers prefer to use a multi-utility provider to:

• Ensure compliance with safety and industry standards
• Manage applications and permits
• Coordinate with DNOs, councils and contractors
• Keep timescales under control