I own or manage an investment property. Do I have to change the existing antenna so that the tenants can get digital TV?

Many existing antennas will be able to receive digital transmissions without any problem, but in some cases equipment may need to be upgraded to receive reliable digital signals. The building’s antenna may need to be assessed by an antenna installer to find out if it needs to be replaced.

You should check that your property is digital ready now to ensure your tenants will be able to receive digital TV signals once the analog signals are switched off in the area.

You may be eligible to claim a tax deduction for part or all of the cost of the purchase or upgrade of antenna equipment for your rental property. To find out whether you’re eligible, contact the Australian Tax Office (ATO), or download the 'Rental Properties' guide.

About multi-dwelling units (MDUs)

If you currently receive good analog TV reception, it's likely that you will have no problem receiving digital TV. However, some buildings may require preparation to get them ready for digital TV.

Buildings such as apartments and units (known as multi-dwelling units or MDUs), groups of townhouses, retirement villages and public and commercial facilities, often use a shared antenna system, also known as a master antenna TV (MATV).

To ensure residents in these types of buildings can continue to receive free-to-air TV after the analog signals are switched off, your building's shared system may need to be upgraded, or may have to be installed for the first time.

The good news is that in most cases the modifications and upgrades required will be minimal. It may not be necessary to replace the whole antenna system.

If you are already connected to a shared antenna system that is receiving digital TV and distributing it via cable throughout your building, you don't need to do anything else. Residents just have to make sure that they have the correct equipment, such as a set top box, a digital recorder or a TV with an in-built digital tuner.

For more information, you can visit the info centre brochure page and download the information for landlord and property manager PDF or the tenants good practice guide.

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