Satellite TV providers like DirecTV and Dish Network deliver TV programming to their subscribers via satellite signals that are received by a Satellite dish (mounted in subscriber’s home). Therefore the Satellite Dish is one of the most important device which is needed for subscribers to enjoy Satellite TV programming. In order to receive the Satellite TV signals properly, the Satellite TV dish has to be placed out doors or at least placed in such a way the dish has a unobstructed view to the open sky. This requirement becomes a problem for tenants and residents living in apartments and buildings where the open area is common and the building rules or the land lord does not allow one to place the satellite dish in the common open areas.
In order to avoid legal complications, satellite TV provider like Dish Network and DirecTV require the residents to get a “landlord permission form” filled and signed by the landlord before installation of the satellite TV system at the customers premises.
This article clearly explains the rights that the residents have and don’t have on where to install the dish and on how to get the permission form or permission letter signed.
Satellite TV Dish FCC Rules – Legal rights of the tenant / resident in installing a Satellite TV dish
In 1996 Federal Communications Commission (FCC) passed rules regarding the installation of Satellite TV dish for tenants / residents of apartments, town homes and similar accommodations. According to the rule, the resident has the right to have a satellite TV dish installed provided the satellite TV dish is less than one meter in diameter (39.37 inches). However, the dish must be installed in the renters or residents exclusive area such as balcony, patio, verandah, yard etc. Home owners association, has the right to enforce restrictions on common areas including exterior walls and roofs.
What are the areas a Satellite TV Dish can be installed?
Renters and residents can install the dish in any possible area which is exclusive to them. Some possible locations are
- Balconies.
- Patios.
- Private, exclusive Gardens.
- Verandah
Refer to image below for illustrations
What are the areas a Satellite TV Dish cannot be installed?
Unless explicit written permission is offered by the landlord or association, the following areas are not allowed for Satellite TV Dish installation
- Common areas.
- Rooftops.
- Outside walls.
- Window sills.
Refer to image below for illustrations (click to enlarge)
