Do all apartment complexes have to allow you to have a satellite dish?

kat13: Do all apartment complexes have to allow you to have a satellite dish?
I just activated my directv service, but just found out I have to relocate. I just got approved for a wonderful apartment and paid the security deposit, but then found out that they do not allow satellite dishes. We called directv and they said that we would still have to pay the 300 dollar cancellation fee even though its not our choice to cancel, it is the landlord saying no dishes. Directv said something that they legally have to allow you to bring a dish with you. Any information or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Answers and Views:

Answer by crazyhumans
No. There is nothing about it being legal. It is upto the apartment owners. Most of them allow it though because it doesn’t hurt anything.

Answer by malibu
Yes.If you contact a satellite company,and you are moving into a apartment complex,the manager has to agree to the process of installation.If you can do it verbally(like a lot do),then go for it,if you can’t an agreement between the installer and the manager is helpful,and will allow you the dish.Try the first one,and see where you get,usually it works!

Answer by cklwong
No, different apt has different rule about dish, you should have checked before signing the lease. However, it’s not very nice that Direct TV makes you pay for the cancellation even though you have not installed anything yet. Try calling back and speak to another rep or the supervisor about that.

Answer by kernel_sanders
Tell your so-called landlord you are going to sue. You have the right to have a dish if you want to.

Answer by shortykb
I live in a condo and we can have satellite as long as it does not have to be attached to the roof. If you go to fcc.gov you can see the ruiling in regards to satelitte dishes. It can not go in “common areas”.

Here is the quote from the FCC.
What Types of Properties Are Covered?

“Under the OTARD rules, an owner or a tenant has the right to install an antenna (that meets size limitations) on property that he owns or over which he has exclusive use or control. This includes single family homes, condominiums, cooperatives, townhomes, and manufactured homes. In the case of condominiums, cooperatives, and rental properties, the rules apply to “exclusive use” areas, like terraces, balconies, or patios. “Exclusive use” means an area of the property that only you and people you permit may enter and use. If the area is shared with others or accessible without your permission, it is not considered.

OTARD rules do not apply to common areas that are owned by a landlord, a community association, or jointly by condominium owners. These common areas may include the roof or exterior walls of a multiple dwelling unit. Under certain conditions, if a common antenna is available for use by residents, then the community association or landlord may reject or not permit the installation of an individually- owned antenna or satellite dish, provided the service and costs are the same.

Are There Any Other Restrictions On Where I Can Install My Dish or Antenna?

Restrictions necessary to prevent damage to leased property are permissible, as long as the restrictions are reasonable. For example, a lease restriction that forbids tenants from drilling holes through exterior walls or through the roof is likely to be permissible.

An association, landlord, or local government may impose certain restrictions when safety is a concern or where a historic site is involved. An example of a safety restriction would be installing an antenna on a fire escape. Safety restrictions must be narrowly written so that they are no more burdensome than necessary to address a legitimate safety purpose. ”

Good luck in trying to get one….I have tried on and off in my condo for 5 years.