Four million homes in the UK receive TV through communal TV systems. A communal TV system provides television signals to a number of users (e.g. in a block of flats) from a single set of aerials or satellite dishes.

Most communal TV systems will need to be upgraded or adapted to make sure that they will work after switchover.

You should make sure your landlord or managing agent is aware of this switch to digital TV and has a plan of action. We have created a letter template (see downloads) that you can use when contacting your landlord, property managers or Housing association about the switchover to digital TV. You can direct them to the property managers website. 

Shared aerial FAQs

• How do I know if my communal TV system has already been upgraded for digital?
• Who will have to pay for any upgrade to my communal TV system?
• What if my landlord or managing agent refuses to upgrade my communal TV system?
• How do I make my landlord or managing agent install a system that gives me choice?
• Can I take steps by myself to upgrade the system?
• Will I be able to get digital TV on an indoor aerial?
• Is the Government planning to help landlords and managing agents understand what to do?

• How do I know if my communal TV system has already been upgraded for digital?

  Your landlord or managing agent will be able to tell you.

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• Who will have to pay for any upgrade to my communal TV system?

  It is up to your landlord or managing agent to arrange and pay for any system upgrade. You may be asked to make a special contribution or it may be paid for out of existing service charges or management payments. As with any householder, you will be responsible for the cost of upgrading the TV equipment in your home. Digital boxes start at around £30 and prices are falling all the time.

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• What if my landlord or managing agent refuses to upgrade my communal TV system?

  Your tenancy lease or agreement may require your landlord or managing agent to provide, and keep in working order, a communal TV system.

  Private landlords or managing agents may have problems with future lettings if properties cannot get a TV signal. In some cases e.g. private flats, it may be up to the freeholder to decide to upgrade the communal TV system and your landlord or managing agent may not be able to act without their agreement.

  If you have problems with your landlord or managing agent, contact your local Citizen’s Advice Bureau.

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• How do I make my landlord or managing agent install a system that gives me choice?

  Your landlord or managing agent should be open to views on the options available. Make sure that you raise these issues with your landlord or managing agent and your tenant’s organisation if you have one.

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• Can I take steps by myself to upgrade the system?

  No. However, landlords or managing agents may allow you to install your own satellite dish or an individual aerial that will allow your property only to receive digital TV.

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• Will I be able to get digital TV on an indoor aerial?

  If you get good TV pictures from an indoor aerial today, you should be able to get digital TV services after switchover. This will not be an option for everyone as indoor aerials are weaker and more likely to get interference.

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• Is the Government planning to help landlords and managing agents understand what to do?

  The Government has written to all local authorities, housing associations and organisations that represent public sector landlords and managing agents and several large bodies representing the private sector to ensure that they know that they must adapt communal TV systems and what they need to do. A guide has also been produced to provide them with further advice.

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