Compensation Explained
If you have electricity poles, overhead power lines, pylons, or underground cables on your property, you might be entitled to a Wayleave Payment—compensation paid by utility companies for using your land. Many homeowners are unaware they can claim for this, potentially missing out on thousands of pounds.
This guide explains what Wayleave Payments are, how they work, and how much you could receive.
Find out if you qualify and how to start your claim today.
Wayleave Payments: What They Are & How They Work
Let’s be honest—telegraph poles, electricity pylons, and high-voltage cables aren’t exactly desirable features on your property. Not only can they be unsightly and affect property value, but some high-voltage equipment also carries potential risks.
What many property owners don’t realise is that if you have overhead or underground utility equipment on your land, you may be entitled to compensation through a Wayleave Agreement
What Is a Wayleave Payment?
A Wayleave Payment is compensation paid by electricity network operators, BT, and Openreach for placing or maintaining their infrastructure on private land. This payment is essentially rent for the space occupied by their equipment and the impact it has on your property.
Common utility equipment that may qualify for a Wayleave Payment includes:
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Overhead electricity cables supplying other properties
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Single or double electricity poles within your garden
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Large electricity pylons on your land
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Underground power cables running beneath your property
How Much Can I Get?
The amount you receive depends on several factors, including the size and impact of the equipment on your property. Payments can range from a few pounds to as much as 3–6% of your property's value, and in rare cases, even more—especially if you have a previously unclaimed payment for a large pylon.
To qualify for a Wayleave Payment:
✅ The equipment must be on your land, not just near it.
✅ Overhead power lines must be directly running over your property.
Even if the annual payment seems small, some agreements cover up to 15 years in advance, resulting in a lump sum worth hundreds—or even thousands—of pounds.
Who Pays Wayleave Compensation?
Wayleave Payments are made by your local electricity distribution provider—not your energy supplier. There are 10 electricity distribution companies across the UK responsible for maintaining these networks.
Your payment amount depends on factors such as:
✔️ The network company responsible for the equipment
✔️ The type of wires, cables, and voltage levels
✔️ The number of lines running over your land
✔️ The type and size of any poles or pylons
✔️ The value of your property
✔️ The proximity of utility infrastructure to your home
For example, a large electricity pylon in your garden could result in a substantial payment, while a single pole or underground cable may qualify for a smaller sum.
