Earlier this year, Dish Network made its way into the wireless industry headlines with its surprise purchase of over $13 billion worth of wireless spectrum (nearly half of the amount that was made available for purchase). The unexpected purchase led to speculation as to what Dish’s long-term business plans were and how the newly purchased wireless capabilities would fit into those plans. Those questions were recently answered when it was revealed that Dish would be entering the wireless market and would offer voice, data and video services to wireless customers.
For the population at large, this means additional competition and choices when selecting a wireless carrier. However, for owners of cell towers and rooftop cell sites, this announcement holds the potential for additional tenants, subtenants, and, depending on the wording of your lease agreement, additional compensation.
It is unclear whether Dish intends to use wireless capabilities already in place by partnering with T-Mobile or Verizon (similar to the wireless service recently launched by Google), or if Dish will instead decide to establish its own independent wireless network. If Dish decides to install its own rooftop equipment, landowners will be contacted directly for cell site agreements. However, if Dish plans to install its own equipment on towers owned by another company, the landowners’ rights are less established. The rights of a landowner, with regard to subleasing equipment or tower space on their property, will come down to a handful of phrases in your cell site lease agreement.
For example, when a new tenant attaches to a cell tower on your property, your tenant may be required to obtain your consent. Furthermore, many agreements grant landowners a share of any sublease rents received by the tenant. If your tenant must obtain your consent, you have a great opportunity to potentially renegotiate certain aspects of your lease, and we can help! If you have questions about your right to additional compensation in the event Dish Network attaches to your cell tower, we advise you to contact Vertical Consultants today for a free lease review and consultation.
In 2022, Vertical Consultants averaged an immediate 302% increase in rents being received by its clients, and since 2010, has been able to assist its clients in the recovery of over 300 years worth of combined underpaid, and, in some cases, unpaid rents and other expenses that were rightfully due to these property owners located throughout North America.
To learn more about our services, visit https://www.celltowerleaseexperts.com or contact Vertical Consultants at info(at)vertical-consultants(dot)com or 877.456.7552.
