Installing Cable Boxes, Satellite Dishes at a Rental Property

Verizon Fios was recently made available in our area but anyone renting their home must jump through a few legal hoops before they can get it. In order to process the fiber optic signal, a cable box must be installed outside the premises to interface with the new fiber optic cable. The installation of a cable box is considered an “improvement” and most leases will specify that alterations or improvements to the property must have the consent of the landlord (makes sense right?). However, the rules are different for telecommunications equipment and improvements!

The Federal Communications Act, passed in 1996, was passed to protect American’s access to information through cable or wireless. It also clearly states that a tenant can install boxes or antennas as long as they are located in the rented property and don’t pose a safety or structural danger, though a landlord may require renter’s insurance to protect against liability (they don’t know how good your construction skills are!).

I would recommend talking it through with your landlord before pulling out the FCA of 1996, you can usually resolve these issues without the use of law.