Fiber optic cable installation is commonly completed using one of three methods:

• Aerial Installation – Fiber cable is suspended on existing utility poles.
• Direct Buried Installation – Fiber cable is installed directly underground using armored cable.
• Existing Conduit Installation – Fiber cable is installed through pre-existing underground ducts or conduits.

The installation method at your property depends on the existing infrastructure serving your address. If your current infrastructure is aerial or uses conduit, the fiber optic cable will typically follow the same route. If your existing infrastructure is buried, the fiber optic cable will also be installed underground.

Fibre Optic Installation Process – Underground Installation Process

Step 1: Communication

All residents in the construction area will receive a letter to notify them that we will be starting construction in the neighbourhood.

Step 2: Mark the Location of Existing Utilities

Before any excavation occurs, we will identify the location of existing utilities on municipal property/Utility Right-Of-Way using locate flags and/or water-soluble paint.

Step 3: Install infrastructure

We install the fibre optic network infrastructure in the Road Right‑of-Way or Utility Right-of-Way. This includes fibre cables, cabinet hubs, and service boxes. The majority of the underground infrastructure will be installed via directional drilling which minimizes disturbance to the ground surface.

Step 4: Mark your property

We then return to locate and mark the utilities on your property. We will obtain your permission to do so. No work will be performed on private property unless the property owner has provided consent in advance.

Step 5: Install a pathway

We install an underground conduit from the flush-to-ground service box to your house.

Step 6: Feed the fibre

We feed the fibre through the underground pathway to the side of your house.


Fibre Optic Installation Process – Aerial Installation Process

Step 1: Communication

All residents in the construction area will receive a letter notifying them that we will be starting construction. This work includes the use of existing poles in the public right of way.

Step 2: Attach overhead

The fibre cable is attached to existing power utility poles.

Step 3: Install the connection point

The construction team visits your home to install a connection point (small grey box) to your house. We will obtain your permission to do so before beginning this work.

Step 4: Feed the fibre

The team feeds the fibre from the utility pole to your house.

Once construction starts in a neighbourhood, it can typically take 2-4 months to complete the area before the fibre is ready for service. If you are an existing customer, the Telecomm Service Provider, identified during the build, will contact you to discuss options before converting your existing services over to the fibre optic network.