6 Things to Know About 5G Rooftop Leasing

[Julio Gonzalez]

As real estate property owners, we all know that we can rent out units and homes, but have you considered leasing out your rooftop?

Here are 6 important things to know about 5G rooftop leasing.

What types of properties are eligible for 5G rooftop leases?

When most property owners think about rooftop leases, they think only commercial properties are able to enter into such agreements. However, 5G rooftop leases are also available for multi-family and single family residences depending on your property and it’s location.

What’s the difference between 5G technology and 1G-4G technology?

5G is 150-200x faster than 4G and eliminates connectivity issues during large events. The signal transmits a much shorter distance due to higher frequency and shorter wavelengths than previous technology. The signal can be much more easily blocked by large buildings and disrupted by severe weather.

What type of revenue stream can I expect from a 5G rooftop lease?

Based on our client’s contracts, an average rooftop can see cash flows averaging $3,000/month per carrier, however we have seen as high as $20,000 depending on your property and it’s location. The term of the lease is anywhere from 5 years to 30 years. Additionally, if your contract with the telecom carrier is negotiated in the most advantageous way, you can lease with multiple telecom carriers on the same rooftop, therefore doubling or tripling your revenue stream.

Is it true that 5G is considered to be harmful to humans?

Despite the many misconceptions being circulated around the internet about 5G’s impact on the human body, the research that has been performed shows that it isn’t harmful to humans. However, it does generate heat similar to other energy technologies.

What type of infrastructure is required for 5G?

4G technology will be utilized until around 2030, so the 5G technology is being built alongside 4G. However, for 5G technology, the cell phone carriers must put transmitters on rooftops every few blocks rather than one large cell tower that is used for 1G-4G.

What are important factors considered if I choose to contract with a telecom carrier?

Find out whether your property is located in a 5G eligible area. The best opportunities are for properties in densely populated areas where cell towers are not permitted. Ensure your lease includes details on the type of equipment that will be installed as well as the square footage needed for this equipment. If they plan to increase the amount of equipment over the term of the lease (i.e. increasing the amount of square footage required), ensure the price of rent increases accordingly. As mentioned above, ensure your contract allows you to lease with multiple carriers.