TV Aerial Installation Cost Breakdown 2026: Comparing Prices & Hidden Fees
Confused by aerial installation quotes? Understand what you're really paying for, spot hidden fees, and compare realistic costs for different installation types across Bedford and Milton Keynes.
Quick Price Guide
What's Included in Installation Costs?
Typical Installation Package (£80-150)
- Professional engineer visit and site assessment
- Aerial hardware (loft or outdoor aerial)
- Coaxial cabling and connection hardware
- Standard installation (not high access)
- Tuning of TV channels and initial testing
- Basic troubleshooting support post-installation
Common Hidden Fees to Watch For
Call-Out Fee (£20-50)
Some engineers charge just to visit your home, even if you don't proceed. Always ask if this is included.
High Access/Scaffolding (£50-150+)
Working on steep roofs, high properties, or listed buildings may incur extra charges. Ask about your property type upfront.
Cable Routing/Trunking (£30-80)
Hiding cables in walls, through lofts, or running exterior cable trays adds cost beyond basic installation.
Multi-Room Installation (£50-150)
Running aerial signal to multiple rooms requires splitters and extra cabling, not always quoted in base price.
Emergency/Same-Day Service (20-50% markup)
Booking same-day or after-hours work typically costs more than standard appointments.
Repair to Existing Issues (Variable)
If your old aerial needs removal, wall repairs, or roof damage fixes – these are additional costs.
Loft vs Outdoor Installation: Cost Comparison
Typical Cost:
£70 - £120
Why Cheaper:
No roof access required, faster installation, minimal cabling
Best For:
Good signal areas, renters, listed properties
Typical Cost:
£100 - £250+
Why More Expensive:
Roof access, higher equipment, weather protection, cabling
Best For:
Weak signal areas, maximum channels, permanent installation
Repairs vs New Installation: What Costs More?
Simple Repairs (£49-99)
Tightening connections, replacing cables, retuning channels
Component Replacement (£80-150)
Replacing splitters, signal boosters, connectors
Full Aerial Replacement (£100-250)
Similar cost to new installation; if damage is major, replacement is often better than repair
How to Get an Accurate Quote
- Describe Your Property: Tell engineers if you have a loft, roof access, listed building status, or unusual height
- Ask About All Fees: Specifically ask: "Does this include call-out fees, cabling, multi-room setup, and travel?"
- Get It in Writing: Quotes should be in writing with all costs itemized
- Compare Apples-to-Apples: Ensure quotes are for the same service (loft vs roof, single vs multi-room)
- Check for Hidden Guarantees: 5-year warranties and after-installation support add value
Red Flags: Unusually Cheap or Expensive Quotes
Too Cheap (Under £50)?
Likely missing services, hidden fees later, or poor-quality installation. Real installation requires time and equipment.
Extremely Expensive (Over £400)?
May include unnecessary upgrades or high-access fees. Get a second opinion before committing.
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