Do I need to ask my landlord to install Internet?

Moving into a new home is already a daunting task, but if you're renting, don't forget to arrange your Internet along with your other utilities before settling in. 

With remote work and weekend Netflix sessions now the norm for many, having a reliable Internet connection from day one is essential. The biggest question to ask is whether or not you need to ask your landlord before you add an Internet connection. 

The answer? Well, that all depends. Are you moving into an NBN-ready house and want to set up your broadband with a new provider? Then no, you don’t need to ask permission. However, if you are moving into a new place that isn’t NBN ready, then you have to ask permission before you install any NBN boxes. What else do you have to consider? 

Contract agreement

If you don't have an NBN box installed on your premises already, then you do need to have a chat with your landlord before you do anything else.

One of the primary reasons why you need to ask your landlord first before anything else is because of the contract agreement. Your landlord may have put clauses in the agreement that prohibits tenants from installing any type of wiring or telecommunications equipment inside the property. 

By going ahead and doing the installation without your landlord's consent, you may be violating the contract and this could lead to some serious consequences - like getting evicted from the property or having to pay a hefty fine.

So before you do anything, make sure to read your contract agreement carefully and see if any clauses prohibit you from installing an NBN connection. If there's nothing, then you're good to go ahead with your plan. 

Just keep in mind that there are some things that you need to consider when it comes to choosing the best Internet plan that will be able to suit your needs and preferences. For instance, the type of Internet connection that you'll be getting and the speed that you need.

Property damage

Another reason why you need to ask your landlord first is because of the potential for property damage. Installing an Internet connection, particularly if it's a wired connection, may require drilling or cutting through walls and floors.

This can cause serious damage to the property - something that you as the tenant would be responsible for. More often than not, landlords would not be too happy to find out that their property has been damaged just because you wanted to install an Internet connection.

On the other hand, your landlord may not have any issues with you installing an Internet connection but just make sure that you take all the necessary precautions to avoid any damage to the property. Get everything in writing so that there's no confusion later on. 

For example, you may want to get your landlord's written consent that you're allowed to drill or cut through walls and floors. This will protect both you and your landlord in case something goes wrong.

Safety concerns

Installing an Internet connection can pose a safety risk to both you and the other tenants in the building. If not installed properly, it could lead to electrocution or even fires. 

So before you go ahead and install an Internet connection, make sure that you understand all the safety concerns and risks involved. Take all the necessary precautions to avoid any accidents or injuries. Again, get everything in writing so that there's no confusion later on.

The bottom line

There are a lot of reasons why you need to ask your landlord before you install an Internet connection in the property you're renting. But the most important reason is that you don't want to violate your contract agreement and end up getting evicted from the property. 

So make sure to read your contract carefully and get everything in writing before you proceed with the installation. By taking the time to consult with your landlord, you can avoid any potential problems down the road.

Looking for a new Internet provider?

Calling the experts at Compare Broadband is a great step whether you are moving to a new property or not. If you are looking for a new Internet provider, our expert broadband team can help you to choose the right one and get connected with the best deals. Call our Aussie-based call team today on 1300 764 000.