Why In-Building Cellular Coverage Is Essential for Your Property

Imagine this: a tenant stands on the top floor of your building, ready to finalize a crucial deal, but their call drops, or the connection is so poor the conversation becomes impossible. It’s more than a frustrating moment—it’s a signal of insufficient connectivity that could directly impact tenant satisfaction, productivity and, ultimately, the desirability of your property.

Ninety percent of all buildings have no indoor cellular coverage solution, reflecting a widespread issue for property owners. While building developers, owners and managers used to rely on outdoor carrier networks to keep their tenants connected, an enormous growth in the number of devices, increased usage of energy efficient building materials and the volume of data consumed means that outdoor networks simply aren’t enough anymore.

The connectivity gap: why buildings struggle with cellular service

Cellular networks rely heavily on outdoor infrastructure, such as cell towers and rooftop antennas. However, these systems can fail to provide adequate indoor coverage due to several key factors:

1. Energy-efficient materials: Modern construction often uses materials like low-E glass, metal, and dense insulation that block or weaken cellular signals from entering buildings.
2. Interior layout: Once inside, signals face further obstacles. Thick walls, furniture, and equipment degrade the signal as it travels through the building.
3. External obstacles: Hills, trees, and nearby structures can block signals before they even reach a building.
4. Network congestion: In densely populated areas, too many overlapping signals can create interference, making it harder for devices to connect reliably, even when the signal strength appears strong.
5. Shared network capacity: Cellular networks must serve devices both outdoors and indoors. When multiple users compete for limited capacity, indoor users can suffer from slow speeds and dropped connections.

With 80% of wireless traffic originating or terminating indoors, these issues make seamless indoor connectivity a vital consideration for property owners.

Why tenants demand reliable wireless connectivity

Today’s tenants prioritize connectivity as a must-have feature, not a luxury. Reliable cellular service is critical for daily operations and communication. Studies show:

• 84% of tenants are willing to pay more for properties with strong connectivity.
• 77% of tenants would extend their lease in buildings with reliable cellular coverage.

For building developers and owners, poor connectivity risks losing prospective tenants who expect infrastructure that supports their needs today and into the future. Properties that fail to meet these expectations can quickly lose their competitive edge in the market.

Wi-Fi alone isn’t enough

Wi-Fi is important, but it cannot replace cellular coverage as it has limitations and can leave critical gaps in connectivity—especially when it comes to voice calls and text messaging. Visitors, prospective tenants and guests often avoid connecting to Wi-Fi networks due to access barriers or security concerns, relying primarily on cellular networks. Building owners should complement Wi-Fi with an in-building cellular solution to ensure fast, reliable, and convenient connectivity for everyone—anytime, anywhere.

DAS: the modern solution for in-building connectivity

Distributed antenna systems (DAS) provide a transformative solution to connectivity challenges. Unlike outdoor networks, DAS brings cellular signals indoors, ensuring strong and consistent coverage throughout a building. By strategically placing antennas, DAS overcomes obstacles like thick walls and congested environments, delivering seamless connectivity.

Boingo Wireless offers end-to-end DAS solutions customized for each property’s unique needs. Their approach ensures:

• Coverage for all major carriers from day one.
• Strong, reliable signal strength in every part of the building.
• Dedicated network coverage to handle high user demand.
• Aesthetic installations that minimize disruption and blend with building interiors.

Turning connectivity challenges into opportunities

Implementing a robust connectivity system isn’t just about solving problems—it’s an investment in the property’s value. Enhanced wireless coverage can attract tenants and justify higher rents; secure longer leases by meeting tenant expectations; and create new revenue streams.

Flexible pricing options make these solutions accessible without the need for significant upfront costs. These models also include ongoing upgrades, ensuring that the infrastructure remains aligned with future technological advancements.

Connect with Boingo

From mixed-use to office buildings, hotels to multi-dwelling units (MDUs), property owners who prioritize seamless cellular coverage for their buildings will not only meet tenant demands but also secure their properties’ competitiveness for the future. Find out how with Boingo Wireless. Contact sales@boingo.com to discover how we can deliver reliable, scalable cellular solutions tailored to your building’s needs.

References: Corning, WiredScore