When you move into an apartment, you’re probably wondering whether it is internet-ready. An internet-ready apartment is particularly important for today’s renter as the advent of flexible work schedules and hybrid work continues.
What Does Internet-Ready Mean?
Internet-ready is similar to the meaning of cable-ready but for actual internet. An internet-ready apartment means that the apartment is pre-wired for an Internet connection, making it easier for the Internet Service Provider (ISP) such as Comcast or Time Warner to activate the connection (as opposed to having the ISP need to install new equipment).
In most existing apartments (those built before 2019), you’ll likely need to coordinate a technician dispatch for service. However, in new apartments (those built after 2019), the ISP may be able to activate your connection remotely.
Ask the landlord which ISP companies (i.e. Comcast, Verizon, Time Warner) provide the service. In some instances, there may be just one service provider while in others you may have options.
If the apartment is not internet-ready, there is likely an added layer of work involved and it may take longer to get online. You may need to discuss this with your landlord to see how long this might take or if work is allowed.
Will You Have Internet on Your Lease?
While some landlords may include Internet in your monthly rent (more common in student housing), it is more likely than not that your lease will not have Internet included in rent (but it is probably internet-ready). When shopping for apartments, ask the landlord about the internet and whether the apartment is internet-ready so you are not surprised later. Some questions you can ask:
- Is Internet part of the lease or will I have to get my own?
- Which internet providers service the apartment?
- Can I get Internet and cable from the same company?
- Does a technician need to come out to install or can they do it remotely?
- Do you have a local contact or should I call the 1-800 number? Oftentimes, apartment buildings will have a local contact which can make the onboarding process easier and might even lower rates.
- How Long Does it Take To Get Internet?
If your apartment is Internet-ready, the service can be turned on almost instantly or within a short period of time. As mentioned above, the company may need to come into your apartment to set up your Internet connection in which case it will take longer.
An Internet-ready apartment is easier to move into, so if that’s important to you, be sure to look for something that suits your needs. On a positive note, virtually all luxury housing today in major cities around the United States are internet-ready.
