Repair a TV aerial.

Modern aerial systems are more sensitive than their analogue predecessors. From 4G and 5G signal interference to water ingress in ageing cables, diagnosing the root cause requires specialized equipment and a safe approach to working at height.

What Does the Work Involve?

• Signal Diagnostics: Using a digital field strength meter to identify the exact cause of signal loss or pixelation.
• Visual Inspection: Checking the mast, mounting brackets, and lashing wires for corrosion or structural instability.
• Cable Assessment: Inspecting the coaxial run for cracks, "bleeding" water, or loose connections.
• Alignment: Re-orienting the aerial to the optimal local transmitter for maximum gain.
• Component Replacement: Swapping out faulty baluns, diplexers, or masthead amplifiers.
• Internal Distribution: Checking splitters and wall sockets to ensure the signal reaches every room correctly.

Typical Costs

The cost of TV aerial repair varies based on your location and the height of the property. Expect to pay more if the technician requires specialized high-reach ladders or roof access equipment.

Prices generally include VAT. Homeowners in London and the South East should expect quotes at the higher end of these ranges due to increased labour rates.

How Long Does It Take?

• Simple Realignment: 30 to 60 minutes.
• Standard Repair (e.g., new cable or booster): 1 to 2 hours.
• Full System Overhaul: 2 to 4 hours depending on the number of rooms being connected.
• Complex Fault Finding: May take longer if there is intermittent interference from external sources.

DIY or Professional?

While basic troubleshooting—such as checking the plug behind the TV—is a DIY task, most aerial work should be left to professionals. Working at height on ladders or roofs carries significant safety risks that require specialist training and harness equipment.

Professional installers use digital signal meters that cost hundreds of pounds; without one, you are simply guessing the alignment, which often leads to "cliff-edge" digital failure where the signal drops out during bad weather.

Choosing the Right Tradesperson

• Check Qualifications: Look for members of the CAI (Confederation of Aerial Industries). They are vetted and must adhere to strict installation standards.
• Insurance: Ensure they have Public Liability Insurance specifically covering "working at height."
• Local Knowledge: A local installer will know the specific quirks of your area's transmitters and potential 5G interference zones.
• Questions to Ask:
  • "Do you use CAI-benchmarked cable (e.g., WF100)?"
  • "Is there a guarantee on the parts and the signal quality?"
  • "Does the quote include the cost of a 4G/5G filter if needed?"

UK Regulations

• Working at Height Regulations (2005): Tradespeople must use appropriate safety equipment and risk assessments for roof work.
• CAI Codes of Practice: Though not law, these are the industry gold standard for signal quality and mounting safety.
• Planning Permission: Generally not required for standard aerials, but restrictions apply in Conservation Areas or on Listed Buildings.

Common Problems

• Water Ingress: Old cables crack, allowing rainwater to run down the inside of the wire directly into your TV tuner.
• LTE Interference: Nearby 4G or 5G mobile masts can "swamp" your TV signal; a simple filter usually fixes this.
• Bird Damage: Large birds landing on the aerial can bend the elements or knock the alignment off-centre.
• Corroded Bolts: Cheap chimney lashings rust over time, leading to the entire mast wobbling in high winds.

Frequently Asked Questions