Satellite Dish Problems. Any Advice?

Question

The local satellite dish company has been installing dishes on my rental roofs WITHOUT my express permission.  They say my tenants claimed to have my permission, and that if I have a problem with the installation (right through the shingles!) then my only recourse is to deal with the tenants and 'make' them pay to have the dish reinstalled elsewhere.  These are low-income tenants, btw, who don't have two spare nickels to rub together.

One of my shingled roofs is leaking.  The dish company said I can file a claim including photos, estimates, etc., (on my dime and time, of course) which I am in the process of doing, but that removing the dish is my (or the tenant's) responsibility.

The FCC regs are clear that roofs are common areas and require the LL's permission.  But the dish company's position is if the tenant says they have my permission that's good enough for the installers.  The local cable company, btw, _does_ call me for permission prior to any installation.

I'm waiting for a call back from the State Attorney General to see what other rights I may have, but other than that I'm stymied.

Anyone have any advice?

Michael Rossi · Answer

Put a clause in your lease that says 'no satellite dishes without the landlord's WRITTEN permission' and be sure to tell each tenant about the policy at move-in.  Don't write any lease longer than 1 month.  If a tenant violates your lease, terminate their lease!

Account Closed · Answer

A couple of suits in small claims court for damage to the roof will tune that installer right up.

If you don't make the effort to cause discomfort to the dish company, they will continue right on with what they are doing, because they are taking the easiest route.

File against the workman who did the actual install.

Account Closed · Answer

Tenants are going to get satellite, because they must have their 120 channels and dish is cheaper than cable.

You know they are going to do it, so provide a location for the dish and show it to the tenant and make them sign something that says the satellite dish will be mounted only on the pole that you have provided for it.

Mark N.A · Answer

Good points, P NW.  After I lodge a complaint with the state AG I'll explore a small claims action.

And I like the idea of putting in some sort of pole, maybe a 4x4;  upon which I will stencil "Satellite Dish Only".

As a side note, while it's hard to beat the excellent cash flow from low-income rentals, the 'intensive management' required really blows.

Mark N.A · Answer

Tracey - they cannot install in a 'common area' without permission of the owner.

Call them up again and get names and/or employee ID numbers before voicing your complaint.  They will, of course, claim they had your permission via the tenants.

File a complaint with the FCC and see if your state's Attorney General might do something.

Good luck and keep us posted.

Tracey B. · Answer

Wow I had the same issue with Dish. They caused significant damage to the top floor of my duplex. When I called them they said they would not speak to me at all and that any complaints would have to be filed by the renter. Since I have all the renters info, if I have to file a complaint against them I will. I paid my handyman $40 to spray w bleach and repaint. If I incur any more costs, I will be going after them.

Bill Patterson · Answer

I've seen these agreements, Dale but I took them to allow lines to cross property only.  No poles which would require an easement.  I hope that it can't be interpreted to allow some novice installer to make holes in my roof!
Bill

Tony Deese · Answer

Mark , I've bought several properties that had dishes already lag bolted thru the shingles. Recently I'd say for the last three years dish network, direct tv and even time warner have asked for a written statement from the LL ( aka) me .I have them install on a pole or on the side of the house.

Mark N.A · Answer

Here in NC installing dishes on 'common areas' like roofs is strictly against FCC regs.  But NOT if the resident claims 'ownership' -- so now picture one of my low-income tenants (no car, no job, no income other than unemployment and food stamps) -- smiling widely and promising that "Yessir we sure do own this place!".

Boy Howdy -- I sure do love all the EASY MONEY that comes with rental property!.........

Satellite Dish Problems. Any Advice?

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