Buildings having problems with cellular connectivity
Full signal bars do not guarantee reliable mobile service when networks are congested, says VECTOR’s Paweł Kozawski. Modern building materials, particularly low-emissivity glass, can also block cellular signals. Poor connectivity disrupts payments, digital tickets, and retail apps, frustrating customers and tenants. Signal repeaters cannot resolve network congestion, while distributed antenna systems with dedicated capacity can improve service inside buildings. Installation requires cooperation with mobile operators.
Owners can fund infrastructure directly, pass costs to tenants, or use subscription services. Kozawski says connectivity increasingly influences tenants’ property choices, although its impact on rents and property values remains unquantified. VECTOR is also developing a building certification program to assess cellular service quality.