Lately, we’ve been fielding a growing number of inquiries from property owners about Verizon’s new “5G Home Ready” service, a wireless alternative aimed at delivering high-speed internet to buildings outside of traditional FiOS markets.
At first glance, it sounds like a win: more choices for residents, less dependency on legacy providers, and a seemingly future-forward upgrade. But before you greenlight Verizon’s 5G install, there’s a critical detail that deserves your attention, one that could cost you if overlooked.
The Hidden Hook: Coaxial Wiring Rights
Verizon’s 5G Home service relies on existing coaxial cable infrastructure, specifically:
- Cable Home Run Wiring (CHRW) – wiring that runs from a central distribution point to each unit.
- Cable Home Wiring (CHW) – the in-unit coaxial wiring.
If your current telecom agreement grants exclusive rights to that coax infrastructure to another provider, you may inadvertently breach your contract by allowing Verizon access. And the consequences can be serious:
- Loss of recurring revenue
- Repayment of any door or marketing fees
- Potential legal action and attorney’s fees
Don’t Assume You’re in the Clear
Yes, some properties have multiple coax lines. But don’t assume that gives you a free pass. Before proceeding with any new telecom provider — Verizon or otherwise — take the time to:
- Review your existing agreements.
Understand whether the wiring rights granted are exclusive or non-exclusive, and to which parts of the coax system. - Know who owns and controls the wiring.
Ownership and access rights can vary between providers, properties, and even jurisdictions. - Get clarity in writing.
Don’t rely on verbal assurances. Make sure all parties understand and agree to the rights before signing anything new.
Bottom Line
Verizon’s 5G Home service may be a great solution for residents, but don’t let the excitement of shiny new tech blindside you. A few minutes reviewing your telecom agreements today can save you months of costly headaches down the line.
As the old saying goes: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”