Fixington

TV Aerial Installation

Trade: Electrician

⭐ Introduction

A TV aerial installation is the process of fitting an external antenna to your home, enabling you to receive Freeview digital TV channels over the air. You might need a new aerial if you’re building an extension, moving into a new property, upgrading an old or faulty aerial, or experiencing poor TV reception.

Good reception can significantly improve picture and sound quality and reduce signal interruptions. In some cases, local signal issues or the location of your home might require a more specialised aerial or even a signal booster.

Because aerial installation involves working at height and handling wiring linked to your home's electrical system, it’s best to use a qualified electrician or a specialist installer experienced with aerials.

🔧 What the job involves

TV aerial installation typically includes:

  • Selecting an appropriate aerial type (e.g., Yagi, Log Periodic, or Grid aerial) for your area and signal requirements.
  • Safely mounting the aerial on the roof, chimney, or a suitable exterior wall bracket. This often requires ladders, roof anchors, or scaffolding.
  • Running coaxial cabling from the aerial into your home, usually via loft spaces or wall cavities.
  • Connecting the aerial cable to your TV or set-top box through a suitable socket.
  • Testing the signal strength and quality to ensure reliable reception across all desired channels.
  • Optionally installing accessories such as signal amplifiers or multi-room distribution systems.

An electrician or aerial installer will also ensure all wiring complies with UK wiring standards and Building Regulations requirements, though TV aerial installations are generally exempt from Part P electrical regulations.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Initial enquiry:

    • Contact a reputable local electrician or aerial installer.
    • Provide details about your property, existing setup, and any reception issues.

  2. Survey and quotation:

    • The installer will arrange a site visit to assess your location, signal quality, and mounting options.
    • They will advise on the best aerial type and provide a fixed price quote.

  3. Scheduling works:

    • Book a convenient date for installation.
    • The installer will inform you about any preparations needed on your part.

  4. Day of installation:

    • The installer will arrive, undertake the installation safely, and fit the aerial and cabling.
    • They will test the signal using specialised equipment, adjust positioning as needed, and connect the TV.

  5. Completion and handover:

    • The installer will clean up any debris and explain how to maintain the aerial.
    • You should ask for a written invoice and any warranty or certification details.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: Typically charged by the hour or per job (£80–£150 per hour).
  • Aerial unit: £20–£80 depending on type and quality.
  • Cabling: £10–£30 for coaxial cable runs, depending on length.
  • Mounting hardware: £10–£50 for brackets, pole mounts, or fixings.
  • Extras: Signal amplifiers may cost £50–£150.
  • Scaffolding/height access: Additional costs if scaffolding or powered access is required (can add several hundred pounds).
  • Disposal: Minimal if old aerials removed; some firms include this in their price.
  • Certification: Not usually mandatory, but a professional installer may provide a certificate of work or reception test report at no extra cost.

Example:
A straightforward aerial replacement with new cable run might cost around £200–£350 all in.

📊 What affects the price

  • Accessibility: Working at height or on difficult roofs requires extra safety measures.
  • Complexity: Multi-room installations or additional sockets increase labour and parts costs.
  • Local signal strength: Poor reception areas might need specialised aerials or boosters.
  • Building Regulations: While Part P electrical rules do not typically apply, any associated wiring changes inside your home with fused spur fittings must meet standards.
  • Remedial works: Repairs to mounting surfaces or wiring faults add to the cost.
  • Location: Remote or hard-to-reach sites may incur travel surcharges.
  • Timeline: Urgent or weekend appointments can cost more.

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Simple swap or replacement: 1–2 hours. This includes removing the old aerial, fitting the new one, and testing reception.
  • New installation with cable run and signal testing: 2–4 hours.
  • Multi-room upgrade or complex mounting: Up to a full day or more, depending on property size and signal requirements.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

While it might be tempting to install a TV aerial yourself, it’s not advisable for most homeowners:

  • Safety: Working on roofs or ladders carries risks; improper falls are common.
  • Signal quality: Choosing the correct aerial and positioning affects reception. Mistakes lead to poor picture or no signal.
  • Regulations: Although aerial installation itself is exempt from Part P, you must still use good wiring practice and avoid damaging the building fabric.
  • Tools and testing: Professional installers use signal meters and have the expertise to tune the aerial correctly.
  • Warranty and service: A professional installation usually comes with guaranteed workmanship and support.

For these reasons, hiring a qualified electrician or specialist installer is usually the best choice.

💰 Typical UK price range

Typical TV aerial installations in the UK cost between £150 and £400, depending on complexity, materials, and access. This estimate includes VAT at the standard rate.

More complex multi-room installations or properties with difficult access may cost upwards of £500.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Prepare your property: Clear loft areas, garden access, and roofing areas where the installer will work.
  • Check for paperwork: Keep manuals, warranties, and any installation reports provided.
  • Request a written quote: Confirm what is included such as parts, labour, and any access equipment.
  • Ask about guarantees: Most professional installers offer at least 12 months warranty.
  • Maintenance: Although aerials generally don’t require regular servicing, it’s good to have your installer check the system if reception deteriorates or after severe weather.
  • Keep contact details: For future repairs or upgrades, having your installer’s details handy saves time.
  • Plan for upgrades: Consider if you want multi-room distribution or digital TV boosters now, as retrofitting later can add cost.

By choosing a qualified electrician or aerial installer following these practical tips, you can enjoy reliable Freeview TV reception and smooth viewing for years to come.