Signal boosters (or BDA's) are governed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).  Any installation of this type of equipment must be managed by a professional communication source that understands the FCC requirements and the equipment. The FCC rules restrict the right to operate signal boosters to; duly authorized (FCC licensed) system owners, or others the licensee may give explicit permission to do so.  In other words, you must have permission, from the frequency licensee, to operate a signal booster.  This could be the cellular company, the local public safety entity or a private owner.  In addition, only equipment that is "certified" by the FCC is allowed.  Manufacturers of these products must have had their product certified by the FCC before putting it on the market.  Approved equipment will always have a certification label from this governing agency displayed on their equipment.  A very important detail that will ensure your system is valid and meets federal mandates.  Keep in mind, however, that a typical in-building communications system requires much more than a signal booster and a couple of antennas. Designing and implementing an in-building communications system is an intricate process requiring a number of steps and processes.

Having reliable wireless communications is an absolute necessity today for the public and first-responders. To ensure appropriate coverage is available, the adoption of "in-building coverage" ordinances are rapidly evolving into a standard practice within many communities.  Code requirements vary from city-to-city as there is currently no "universal" code written/accepted to address in-building coverage.  Many times it is dictated and managed by the Fire Marshall as opposed to a city's Building Code department.  A general "rule of thumb indicates that in-building coverage is usually required for only commercial structures that are 50,000 sq feet or more.  There are no current known requirements relating to residential structures.  Most in-building ordinances require that between 85 and 95 percent of floor space in a building is provided with adequate coverage. In addition, all in-building ordinances require that coverage be available between 90 and 100 percent of the time.

Failure to comply with in-building coverage requirements can cause suspension (or denial) of a certificate of occupancy.  It is important for general contractors to be aware and knowledgeable of this type of requirement prior to the completion of construction.  Most in-building systems require that cable be laid behind the sheet rock and/or the mounting of antennas that do not detract from a building's aesthetic surroundings.  Consideration must also be made for space requirements in an electrical closet or other climate controlled room to accommodate the BDA including a dedicated 120 VAC /20 amp circuit.  Therefore, pre-planning for these applications is necessary to avoid project delays and additional expenses.  Also, depending on the size of the facility, and the type of system needed, at least a 3-6 mo allowance should be made to complete an installation.  Estimates on designing in-building coverage solutions require that a qualified RF Engineer do a site walk prior to designing a system that will provide ample coverage and ensure that public safety requirements are met.  Cost will vary depending on the intricacy of the system needed to produce results.  Cost can range from $5,000 to $250,000+.  However, it is important to note that only a certified communication professional should install the system to ensure compliance with the stringent FCC requirements/guidelines.