Cable television: What will change for tenants in July 2024
In the midst of the digital transformation, cable TV is now also undergoing significant changes. From July 1, 2024, tenants in Germany will be able to decide for themselves whether and via which provider they want to use cable TV in the future. This change brings both advantages and disadvantages. In this blog post, we explain the upcoming changes and their impact on you as a tenant.
Why the change?
The reforms in the cable TV sector are the result of the ongoing technological change and increasing individualization. Previously, cable TV in apartment buildings was assigned to providers in joint contracts and billed to the tenants via the ancillary costs. This was actually quite practical, but this is now changing fundamentally. Every tenant who now wants to use cable TV must now conclude an individual TV user contract.
The changes in cable television come from the amendment to the Telecommunications Act (TKG). A central element of this reform is the abolition of the so-called "ancillary cost privilege". Previously, landlords were able to pass on the costs of the cable connection to tenants via the service charge bill. This was done regardless of whether tenants actually used the cable connection or not. This procedure will end from July 2024. Tenants must now decide for themselves whether or not they want to use the cable connection at their own expense and, if so, from which provider. Because beware - otherwise you will no longer be able to watch TV from the cut-off date!
What advantages do you have?
- Cost savings: Many tenants will benefit financially from the new regulation.Previously, those who did not use the cable connection still had to pay the costs via the tenants' association as part of the service charge bill. This is no longer the case thanks to the individual choice.
- Individual choices:From July, tenants will be free to decide whether they want to use a cable connection or opt for other options such as streaming services or satellite TV. This freedom of choice promotes competition and could lead to attractive offers.
- Better cost control: Individual and direct billing with the cable network operator enables better control over monthly expenditure. Tenants can clearly see what they are paying for and can control and optimize their expenditure in a targeted manner.
What disadvantages do you have?
Increased effort: With the new regulation, contracts must now be concluded independently with cable network operators. This requires time and effort, as various providers and offers have to be compared, contracts concluded and payments made independently.
Possible increase in costs: In some cases, the individual contract structure could also be more expensive than the previous joint billing of ancillary costs.
Technical changeover: The abolition of the service charge privilege often also entails technical modernization. For example, installation work may be necessary to update appliances.
Here are some practical tips
- Early information: Find out in good time about the upcoming changes and the various providers. Many cable network operators offer special transition offers.
- Provider comparison: Use comparison portals and customer reviews to find the best provider for your needs. Pay attention not only to the price, but also to the contract terms and customer service.
- Contract review: Read the terms and conditions carefully. Look out for hidden costs and, above all, make sure the contract term is manageable. Flexible termination options can be an advantage, especially if you are staying for a limited period of time.
- Technical preparation: Make sure that the devices are compatible with the new technical standards. This applies to televisions as well as routers and other reception devices.
- Budget planning: Take the new costs into account in your individual monthly budget planning. A small financial cushion for possible cost increases can be helpful.
Conclusion
The changes to cable TV from July 1, 2024 will bring more transparency and offer individual choices. They can now decide for themselves whether they want to use cable TV or alternatives. At the same time, the changeover will also mean more administrative work or even higher costs for each individual.
You are also welcome to contact us - we will name specialists who can give you good advice and take care of the switchover.
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