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Your aerial

If you choose a digital TV service like Freeview, BT Vision or Top-up TV you will need to consider your aerial. If you have a satellite or cable service on all your TVs, you don't need an aerial.

I want to check my aerial

To check whether your aerial needs to be replaced or upgraded, download the aerial checker summary or our factsheet or visit Teletext page 284 where there is an aerial test:

  • The test is a guide to the likelihood of digital reception using your existing aerial.
  • It can be found on BBC One, BBC Two, ITV1, Channel 4 and S4C.
  • A Welsh-language version is available on S4C page 484.
  • If you need a more definitive answer then you may wish to seek advice from a good aerial installer or retailer.

This test is unsuitable if you have a shared aerial and in areas where the postcode checker indicates that an aerial change is required.

I live in a flat with a shared aerial

If you live in a flat, it is likely that you receive your TV signal via a communal aerial system. This means you will share an aerial with other flats in your building. Many of these will need to be upgraded or replaced for the digital switchover.

It is important that you speak to the person who manages your building to ensure that your communal aerial is able to receive a digital. Find out more.

Replacing your aerial

If you think you may need to replace your aerial, do not attempt to adjust it yourself. Look for an installer with the digital tick logo – this means they have been trained and security checked. Only Registered Digital Installers (RDIs) are permitted to use the digital tick logo.

If you can’t find one, don’t worry. Look for someone with associate RDI, CAI Plus or IDSC status or ask your local electrical retailer. To find a RDI, visit http://www.rdi-lb.tv/

Find help

Still have questions? Browse this section for further help.

Postcode checker

When is the switchover coming to me?

Your postcode



House name or number

Why do you need this?

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