Satellite Dish Removal...Who's Responsibility Is It?

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?

  1. Satellite Provider
  2. Property Owner
  3. Property Manager
  4. Tenant

Answer: Tenant

Roof damage from a mounted satellite dish.

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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