Communal TV

We're the experts on digital TV

This page answers some of the questions about your digital TV options that people ask most often. If you have a question that isn't covered, or you need more information about anything else, please call our dedicated team on 08442 410 388, and they will be pleased to help you.

Shared Dish

• Q1: Is Shared Dish really free? 

  A: In most cases, Shared Dish and standard installation are free, subject to survey. This is when at least 4 flats in the block register for Sky TV and the block is up to 3 storeys high and of 48 flats or less.

• Q2: Will there be any costs at all? 

  A: You'll need a qualified electrician to earth the system, to ensure it complies with safety regulations (this should only cost around £150). There will also be additional costs if you need a bespoke solution for your blocks.

• Q3: What do I have to do to get a Shared Dish? 

  A: Simply register your properties for a Shared Dish at sky.com/register and leave the rest to us.

• Q4: Is there anything else I need to do? 

  A: Once we tell you 4 or more flats have registered for Sky TV, we'll need to arrange a date with you to survey the block. Once you agree the survey, we'll do the rest.

• Q5: Do current Sky TV subscribers count towards the 4 required to register? 

  A: Sorry, no. You need 4 brand-new residents to register for Sky TV to qualify for a free survey and free installation.

• Q6: What does the Shared Dish solution look like? 

  A: There is a choice of cable colours for the outside of your block – black, brown and white. The survey will suggest the route and colour of the cable runs. Where possible we'll ensure that all cables are discreetly located – e.g. by hiding them behind drainpipes and grouping them together. The dish is just 78cm in diameter and can be located discreetly alongside its own cabinet.

• Q7: What if my buildings already have minidishes on the wall? 

  A: After you liaise with the applicable residents we can remove up to 4 dishes for free on installation day and reconnect these flats to the Shared Dish instead.

• Q8: Who owns the Shared Dish and what happens if there's a problem with it? 

  A: The dish is free and is the responsibility of the managing agent or social landlord. All equipment supplied by Sky comes with a one-year warranty. In the unlikely event of a problem, simply contact your specialist installer who will work to resolve it.

• Q9: Who pays if we want a bespoke Communal TV solution? 

  A: Any costs for bespoke requirements would be paid for by the managing agent or social landlord and, depending on the lease, may come out of the service charge. However, in most cases a Shared Dish is the best option for Sky TV in flats, and the only cost incurred is for the earth safety requirements.

Communal Solution

• Q1: What does a Communal Solution based on IRS look like? 

  A: It typically comprises a satellite dish of about 78cm across and two aerials on the roof (one for TV and one for radio), and an indoor cabinet for switches and cabling.

• Q2: How much does it cost to install? 

  A: That depends whether you are upgrading or having a new system, whether you have existing cable ducts, and whether you want the cabling to be inside. Having a survey done will determine the price.

• Q3: What do I have to do to get a Communal Solution? 

  A: Simply call us on 08442 410 388 or you can send us an email by clicking here

• Q4: Do you offer bespoke solutions? 

  A: Yes, all IRS-based solutions are bespoke.

• Q5: Is there a maximum number of flats for a Communal Solution? 

  A: No. An IRS can be designed for any number of flats.

• Q6: Is there a maximum number of storeys? 

  A: No, but we may need to use special access equipment for some blocks. A survey will determine this.