New Cell Sites (AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile)

By Brett Reall

As the wireless carriers rush to improve cellular coverage and roll out 5G technologies, we are seeing the creation of some new cell sites. With Dish Wireless exiting the market, there is some upheaval, especially from the tower companies; however, we have also recently assisted our landlords in leasing space to Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and a variety of government entities and small internet service providers. New builds from the major tower companies seems to have slowed, but smaller activity from smaller tower companies seems to have picked up. The sense is that the smaller tower companies seem to be willing to build and lease at lower rates than the large, established tower companies.

Many times salespeople for the wireless carriers make this all about rent; however this is only part of the story.

Leasing new cell sites requires an understanding of market dynamics and cellular carrier needs, as well as what alternative options exist for their networks. New wireless leases have many formats, with varying terms. Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, all have different terms they are willing to accept within their wireless leases. Tower companies have different goals and requirements. Some terms differ from region to region, and in some cases the flexibility in the lease language appears to differ by the salesperson who is contacting the landlord. In these cases it is important to understand what the cellular carrier or tower company needs, as well as what cell tower lease language has been accepted in other locations.

When it comes to the tower location, some properties are the only solution, while other sites have multiple viable options. With new cell sites, it is critical to have experience in leasing, cell site construction, and RF propagation. Because Gunnerson Consulting specializes in cellular infrastructure, our consultants can provide insight on coverage patterns, RF propagation, and how your property may fit into the overall network of a wireless provider.

If you have been contacted by Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile, or by an independent tower company about adding a cell site to your property, a cell site consultant can provide valuable insight. Give us a call to discuss how we make this a win-win proposition for our landlords and their prospective cellular tenants.