The installation of a mobile phone antenna on the roof of a residential building often raises questions and concerns among residents. Homeowners should take the tenants’ perspective seriously and understand their concerns. The decision to rent out a mobile phone antenna is usually made to increase rental income and increase the value of the property in the long term – while keeping the safety and well-being of the residents in focus.

Mobile phone antennas are ubiquitous in our modern, networked world. Especially for property owners who have such an antenna on their roof, there are many financial benefits. On the other hand, residents often have concerns when it comes to possible effects. So what should property owners consider when renting out a house with a mobile phone antenna installed?

Health concerns and legal regulations

A frequent point that comes up is the health concern regarding electromagnetic radiation. This concern is understandable to a certain extent. In Austria and Germany, however, there are clear legal regulations that ensure that mobile phone antennas do not have any harmful effects on the health of people in their vicinity:

  • These limits are strict and are well below levels that could be harmful to health.
  • The sites are regularly inspected to ensure that the limit values are complied with.
  • Vorblick Consulting provides support in meeting these requirements and helps homeowners to provide all the necessary legal evidence.

The Supreme Court in Germany & Austria has repeatedly dealt with cases in which tenants have demanded rent reductions due to health concerns. As a rule, such claims have been rejected as there is no reliable scientific evidence of adverse health effects caused by mobile phone antennas. Even the mere fear of possible effects is not legally sufficient to assert rent adjustments or claims for damages.

Important to know: If the scientific data situation changes and new findings about health risks emerge, mobile phone providers are obliged under the contract to take appropriate measures, such as dismantling the antennas.

Visual change to the building

Another issue is the visual change to the building. The installation of a mobile phone antenna changes the appearance of a building, and it should be understood that not everyone is positive about this change. This is why Vorblick Consulting and the mobile phone providers work closely together to ensure that the antennas are installed as discreetly as possible and do not cause any unnecessary disruption. Modern technologies now offer very inconspicuous solutions that minimize the visual impact.

Influence on the value of the property

Another concern that is often expressed is the impact of a mobile phone antenna on the value of the property. While many residents argue that an antenna negatively affects the external appearance of a building and therefore reduces the property value, the legal chances of challenging this are slim. In most cases, it is argued that the function and benefits of such installations are in the public interest and therefore take precedence over individual aesthetic concerns.

Advantages for owners and residents

Letting to mobile phone providers is a way for owners to create financial stability – an aspect that ultimately also benefits residents, as it secures long-term investment in the maintenance of the building. However, tenants should not feel that their concerns take second place to economic interests. Vorblick Consulting supports owners not only in negotiating the best conditions, but also in taking into account the interests of all parties involved.

Contractual agreements

An important aspect that residents should pay attention to are the contractual agreements made between the property owner and the mobile phone provider. These contracts often contain clear regulations on:

  • Maintenance and servicing of the mobile phone antenna
  • Dismantling of the antenna in the event of proven health risks

This ensures that both owners and residents are protected.

Multiple use by several mobile phone providers

One point that is often underestimated is the possibility of several mobile phone providers using the same transmitter mast. This so-called subletting can generate additional traffic of technicians and maintenance staff. Residents should therefore ensure that they are informed in good time of any potential disruption in the event of maintenance work. This multiple use often generates higher income for owners, but also requires that appropriate safety and maintenance precautions are taken.

Creating communication and trust

It is important to ensure that every resident feels comfortable and safe. If there are any questions or concerns about the mobile phone antenna, owners should be available to residents in good time:

  • Provide detailed information
  • Organize face-to-face meetings to answer questions

The aim is to create trust and ensure that all parties – both owners and residents – benefit from this decision.

Contact Vorblick Consulting

If you require further information on leasing mobile phone sites or are interested in leasing, owners are welcome to contact Vorblick Consulting. Vorblick is a competent partner and offers comprehensive advice.