We were approached to put a cell tower on our property. What should I know before I go through with it?

Being approached to lease your property for a cell tower is an opportunity that can provide you with a reliable source of income. However, it’s essential to approach the process with careful consideration and due diligence. Here are some key factors to know and consider before proceeding:

1. Understand the Proposal: Carefully review the proposal from the cell tower company. Understand the terms they are offering, including the proposed lease rate, lease duration, rent escalation clauses, and any additional terms or obligations.
2. Negotiation Opportunities: Recognize that lease agreements are often negotiable. You have the opportunity to negotiate the terms to ensure that they align with your interests. Consider seeking professional advice from experts in cell tower leasing or real estate.
3. Property Value Impact: Evaluate the potential impact of the cell tower on your property’s value. While a lease can provide income, the tower’s presence could affect property resale value and potential land use in the future.
4. Zoning and Regulations: Research local zoning regulations and land use policies. Ensure that your property is zoned for telecommunications facilities and that you comply with all relevant regulations.
5. Environmental Considerations: Assess any environmental impacts of the tower’s construction and operation. Consult with experts to ensure that the project adheres to environmental regulations.
6. Access Rights: Clarify access rights and conditions in the lease agreement. Understand when and how the cell tower company will access your property for construction, maintenance, and repairs.
7. Lease Termination Terms: Review the lease agreement’s termination terms. Understand the conditions under which the lease can be terminated, and whether you have the right to terminate the lease under specific circumstances.
8. Insurance and Liability: Ensure that the lease agreement specifies insurance requirements and liability provisions. Both parties should be clear about their responsibilities in case of damages or liability issues.
9. Consult Legal and Financial Advisors: Consider consulting with legal and financial professionals who specialize in cell tower leasing to protect your interests and understand the legal and financial implications of the lease.
10. Professional Site Evaluation: Have a professional evaluate your property to determine its suitability for a cell tower site. Factors such as terrain, accessibility, and proximity to existing infrastructure can influence the feasibility of the site.
11. Community Impact: Consider the potential impact on your community or neighbors. Some residents may have concerns about aesthetics, property values, or health-related issues associated with cell towers.
12. Alternative Uses: Think about alternative uses for your property and how the presence of a cell tower may affect those possibilities. Explore the potential for co-location with multiple carriers, which can increase lease income.
13. Long-Term Implications: Cell tower leases often have long durations. Consider the long-term implications of the lease and how it aligns with your future plans for the property.
14. Consult with Others: Speak with other property owners who have leased their land for cell towers to learn from their experiences and gain insights.

Taking the time to thoroughly understand the proposal, evaluate the impacts, and negotiate favorable terms can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your goals and ensures that you receive fair compensation for leasing your property for a cell tower.