Refurb projects often degrade indoor cellular coverage due to modern envelopes. This guide explains how to specify an Ofcom‑compliant commercial cellphone booster with a distributed antenna system (DAS), document it for sign off, and align responsibilities between contractor and specialist.
Why does coverage drop once the new fabric goes in? Low‑E glazing, foil insulation and steel frames attenuate donor signal, creating blackspots in lifts, basements and internal rooms.
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Spec essentials: DAS in plain English
- Donor path: roof location with line‑of‑sight; isolation from internal antennas.
- Head‑end & distribution: approved booster hardware feeding a DAS (coax or fibre).
- Antenna plan: density and placement by floorplate, materials and target dBm.
- Multi‑operator: one system serving EE, O2, Vodafone and Three.
- Backbone coordination: firestopping, containment and segregation from power.
- Commissioning: pre/post readings, acceptance criteria and a handover pack.
Compliance: avoiding enforcement risk
Only certain equipment and installation methods are legal under Ofcom rules. Grey‑import repeaters can cause interference and attract enforcement. Specify an Ofcom‑compliant system installed by qualified engineers, with documented interference checks.
Drawings & evidence for smooth sign‑off
- Survey heatmaps and donor signal analysis by network.
- DAS layout drawings with antenna schedules and cable routes.
- Method statements for roof works and internal cores.
- Test sheets with before/after signal levels per zone.
- Handover pack: as‑builts, O&M and maintenance options.
Programme & phasing
Engage early to secure riser space and roof permissions. Phase works to reduce disruption in live buildings; coordinate with other trades to avoid rework.
