If you're planning an in-building wireless project or Distributed Antenna System (DAS) installation, ensuring proper coverage, FCC compliance, and seamless integration is critical. Avoiding common pitfalls can save time, money, and frustration. Here are five major mistakes to steer clear of:
1. Skipping a Signal Assessment
One of the biggest mistakes is not conducting a professional benchmark survey before starting your project. A macro benchmark test:
· Identifies existing signal strength
· Ensures engineering is sound all the way through
· Provides necessary information for designing the right wireless coverage system for your use case within your budget constraints.
· Shows the improvement of your investment before and after installation.
Without a signal assessment, you risk blind spots, interference, and ineffective coverage solutions.
2. Not defining your budget upfront
Before DAS engineering begins, you need to define your budget and capacity/coverage goals. This will help the engineers understand your needs and how to achieve them. Wireless solutions and combinations are infinite, and your budget will determine the best signal source and system type for your project.
3. Overlooking Carrier Integration
A Distributed Antenna System (DAS) is useless without proper carrier integration. Some projects fail because they lack carrier approvals, leading to weak signals even after expensive deployments. Carrier coordination is critical for:
- OEM equipment compatibility
- Meeting FCC compliance
- Avoiding costly legal implications
4. Poor Installation Practices
Improper DAS installation can derail your entire project. Common mistakes include:
· Incorrect connectorization and fiber splicing
· Failure to optimize and tune the system properly
· Lack of certification and training for installers
A properly installed DAS eliminates delays, reduces troubleshooting headaches, and ensures maximum performance and reliability from day one.
5. Choosing the Wrong Integrator
Not all in-building wireless contractors are created equal. The right partner will:
· Have RF engineering experience
· Have technicians who know the RF and how to tune thesystem properly
· Understand the Commissioning and acceptance
· Verify the system is working at optimum performance
Get It Right the First Time
Avoiding these mistakes will ensure a successful in-building wireless deployment and enhance cellular coverage. Work with experienced wireless contractors, DAS providers, and wireless carrier integration specialists to build a system that meets your needs.
Need expert guidance on your in-building wireless project? Contact our DAS installation experts today to explore your options.
If tenants or employees are complaining about dropped calls and slow loading speeds, your building likely has poor cellular coverage. The good news? There are solutions, and we can help.
Why Is My Building’s Signal Weak?
Common causes include building materials (concrete, metal, Low-E glass) that block RF signals, distance from cell towers, and network congestion. Fixing it requires the proper in-building wireless infrastructure retrofitted to your building.
Steps to Improve Cell Phone Coverage:
1. Understand your Needs and Budget
There is no one-size-fits-all solution in the wireless industry. Identifying your building’s use case and tailoring the solution helps align your budget with expectations from the start.
2. Signal Assessment
Always start with a benchmark assessment of the existing macro signal. A professional site survey will identify coverage gaps and will help determine the best solution for your building.
3. Choosing the Right Solution
Not all solutions are right for every building or budget. Options range from carrier-independent systems like Part 20 solutions, which expedite deployment, to carrier-coordinated systems such as Class-A solutions for extensive coverage.
Having industry experts guide you ensures you avoid cookie-cutter approaches and implement the right system for your needs.
Why You Should Invest in Better Coverage
Tenant satisfaction is directly linked to reliable mobile connectivity. According to industry surveys:
· 60% of building managers report tenant complaints aboutLTE voice and data quality
· Over 80% say prospective tenants ask about mobile service during evaluations. Enhancing in-building cellular coverage not only improves tenant experience but also boosts property value.
Choosing the Right Partner
Centerline specializes in nationwide in-building wireless solutions and Distributed Antenna System (DAS)installation, tailoring connectivity solutions for multi-family complexes, hospitals, office campuses, stadiums, resorts, and high-rise buildings. Our turnkey expertise simplifies the process, handling everything from design to deployment.
Let’s make your building’s connectivity seamless. Contact us today to get started.
As emergency communication requirements tighten across the country, building owners, developers, and facility managers need to stay ahead of ERRCS compliance to avoid costly setbacks and ensure public safety for tenants and first responders.
This guide answers the most pressing questions around Emergency Responder Radio Communication Systems (ERRCS), code enforcement, and how to stay compliant.
1. Why Are Cities Increasing Enforcement?
Across the country, cities are putting more emphasis on in-building wireless communication for one simple reason: first responders need reliable radio coverage in emergencies.
Poor signal coverage inside buildings can delay emergency response and endanger both responders and occupants. This risk has led many jurisdictions to update fire code enforcement and accelerate inspections for ERRCS compliance.
2. What Are Cities Requiring?
Newer construction methods and materials—such as Low-E glass, reinforced concrete, and energy-efficient insulation—can block or degrade emergency radio signals. That’s why Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) are increasingly requiring ERRCS systems and ongoing testing.
Typical requirements include:
- ERRCS for new and existing commercial buildings
- Pre-construction radio frequency (RF) surveys
- Annual testing and re-certification
- Full documentation to receive a Certificate of Occupancy (CO)
- Use of UL 2524-listed equipment and compliance with NFPA 1225 and IFC Section 510
3. Which Cities Are Enforcing ERRCS?
Enforcement is expanding nationwide, particularly in metro areas where public safety departments have adopted newer fire codes.
Below is a map showing where ERRCS are being mandated across the country:
Each jurisdiction has its own set of codes, making it imperative that your ERRCS engineer and contractor thoroughly understand your jurisdiction. A few of the nuances are listed here:
Atlanta, GA
All new commercial construction must meet IFC Section 510 and demonstrate in-building radio coverage. COs will not be issued without ERRCS approval.
Seattle, WA & Oregon State
Structures over 50,000 square feet must ensure reliable radio communication or install a code-compliant ERRCS system.
San Francisco, CA
ERRCS is required under Fire Code Section 511 for most commercial, high-rise, and underground buildings. The San Francisco Fire Department must inspect and approve systems before occupancy.
4. What Happens if My Building Is Not in Compliance?
Failing to meet ERRCS requirements can result in:
- Delays in obtaining your Certificate of Occupancy (CO)
- Fines and code violations
- Risk to life safety in emergencies
- Expensive retrofits and construction delays
- Failed inspections and additional permitting headaches
5. How Do I Maintain Compliance?
Staying compliant requires more than a one-time install. Here’s how to stay on track:
- Conduct a Signal Survey – Assess your current coverage.
- Install a Code-Compliant ERRCS – Use UL 2524-certified equipment.
- Perform Annual Testing – Required by most AHJs.
- Maintain Documentation – Keep test reports, drawings, and maintenance records accessible.
Need HelpNavigating ERRCS Requirements?
We specialize in supporting building owners and developers with full ERRCS solutions—from RF surveys and system design to testing, installation, and annual re-certification.
Reach out to us for guidance and support on your next project.
Other ERRCS resources: Breaking Down the Most Commonly Asked ERRCS Questions
Getting your property outfitted with EV charging stations comes with its challenges, but with the right approach, it can be a smooth and efficient process. Before you break ground, make sure you have these three key elements in place:
#1. Take All of Your Properties Into Consideration
If you manage multiple locations, planning your EV charging infrastructure holistically can save you time and money. Consider factors like location accessibility, software and management platforms, expected vehicle demand, and long-term scalability. A technology-agnostic EV infrastructure provider will take into account all of your properties to ensure the right EV charging solutions are implemented efficiently across your portfolio.
#2. A Site Evaluation to Avoid Costly Surprises
A comprehensive site assessment is critical before EV charger installation. Without it, you may face unexpected electrical upgrades, permitting delays, or costly trenching work. A professional EV charging infrastructure contractor will evaluate utility coordination, civil construction requirements, and compliance needs, ensuring your site is fully prepared before installation begins.
#3. A Partner to Navigate the Ins and Outs
From permitting and engineering to rebate optimization and long-term maintenance, the right EV charging solutions provider will handle all facets of the project. Choosing a turnkey EV infrastructure partner ensures that every stage—from planning and installation to maintenance and compliance—is streamlined, stress-free, and cost-effective.
Set Your EV Charging Project Up for Success
Avoid delays, unexpected costs, and inefficiencies by working with an experienced EV charging infrastructure provider. Centerline specializes in end-to-end EV charging solutions for multi-family properties, hotels, shopping centers, and fleet solutions, ensuring your project is designed for long-term success. Contact us today to get started!
Overview:
Centerline partnered with an Illinois School System to modernize transportation by installing comprehensive EV charging infrastructure. The project included the deployment of 30 Level 2 (L2) dual-port EV chargers, supporting a 30-vehicle capacity to facilitate the district’s transition to electric school buses. This scalable solution is part of a broader initiative to develop a reliable and sustainable EV charging network for the region.
Scope of Work:
Centerline executed a turnkey EV infrastructure solution, managing every project phase—from architecture and engineering (A&E) to permitting, civil construction, commercial electrical installation, commissioning, and ensuring compliance with EV rebate and incentive programs. Our approach ensured seamless integration of the new EV charging infrastructure, delivering the project on time and within budget while ensuring the site met EV infrastructure compliance standards.
Challenges & Solutions:
1. Supply Chain Delays: Facing potential year-long lead times for panel procurement, Centerline leveraged industry relationships to commission custom-built electrical panels that met budget and timeline requirements. This proactive approach ensured the fleet EV charging infrastructure was ready for the upcoming school year.
2. Custom Switchgear for Reliability: To ensure reliable, uninterrupted service, a custom switchgear system was developed, including a manual transfer switch for generator use during power outages. This bespoke solution addressed the client's operational continuity needs and ensured the reliability of the EV charging station infrastructure.
3. Efficient Installation with Minimal Disruption: The team implemented an efficient installation strategy by mounting chargers on jersey barriers, reducing the need for extensive trenching and facilitating easier expansion or relocation. Additionally, a modular shipping container was utilized to house all electrical and power components, streamlining the EV charging installation process.
4. Incentive Compliance Management: Centerline meticulously managed the process to ensure full compliance with available EV rebates and incentive programs, optimizing the project's financial viability for the school system and supporting long-term sustainable transportation infrastructure development.
Project Management Excellence:
The entire EV charging infrastructure installation was completed in just seven months, with pre-construction beginning on January 1st and systems operational by August 1st—well in time for the new school year. The timeline included 3.5 months for engineering, permitting, and site assessment, followed by 3 months of construction. A dedicated Project Manager, and a qualified electrician oversaw every phase of the project, ensuring all utility requirements and EV compliance standards were met while maintaining schedule integrity. Their proactive approach to material ordering and logistics ensured all components were ready for seamless installation.
Centerline’s integrated and self-perform approach to civil and electrical EV infrastructure work enabled strict schedule control and cost efficiency. Close communication and a dedicated on-site management team ensured successful project completion. The result was a fully electrified and operational EV charging station for the school bus fleet, ensuring sustainable, reliable, and efficient student transportation for years to come.