Have you ever noticed how some rental properties have 2 or 3 satellite dishes on their roof? Or wondered why some properties have strict rules about installing satellite dishes? While providing a valuable service, these dishes can sometimes become quite the nuisance to property owners if rules for the proper installation and removal are not set in advance.
Who is responsible to remove an old satellite dish from the property once a tenant moves out?
- Satellite Provider
- Property Owner
- Property Manager
- Tenant
Answer: Tenant
Many people believe it is the responsibility of the satellite service provider to remove the equipment since they are the ones who installed it, but this is not the case. According to a representative from DISH, “The dish, or antenna, is the property of the customer.”. The tenant is actually responsible to remove their satellite dish; however you need to get it in writing. Unless it is stated in your rental agreement that the tenant is solely responsible for removal, then the responsibility falls to the property owner or property manager.
What about damage caused by the removal of the dish? The tenant is also responsible to leave the property in the condition it was received which includes repairing any holes caused by installation of the satellite dish and repainting damaged areas.
Your Real Property Management office is familiar with the issues related to satellite dishes and will assist you in avoiding costly mistakes and repairs.
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What happens if the tenants have the satellite equipment installed without getting permission from either the owner or property management?
I also need an answer to this question. I built a NEW house and my first tenants installed both a television dish and internet dish WITHOUT permission!
If the lease states that any alteration to the property requires the permission of the owner or property manager, then a letter asking for the removal of the dish is in order. The property owner should keep in mind that the Federal Communications Commission has stated that it is unlawful to limit the receiving of satellite transmission in rental properties within guidelines set forth. For more information, visit the following link: https://www.fcc.gov/media/over-air-reception-devices-rule
what if i have moved into a rental where the Dish has been abandoned? I have no intentions of using the service. What are my options? The Dish is on the ground (on cinder blocks) so It would be easy to remove for the company.
Due to the fact that our office is not licensed to practice law in any state or province we are unable to answer questions with regard to Landlord/Tenant or other laws or contracts including individual lease agreement questions. For assistance with these items, please contact your local attorney, fair housing authority or other tenant advocacy programs available.
The front of rental property is littered with 4 dishes. Can I have the tenant request the dish company to move the dish to the back of the building? Can I put in writing on rental lease agreement that no dish antennas are allowed on property?
Due to the fact that our office is not licensed to practice law in any state or province we are unable to answer questions with regard to Landlord/Tenant or other laws or contracts including individual lease agreement questions.