IRS systems — what they are and why they matter
An IRS (Integrated Reception System) is a single aerial and/or satellite installation that distributes TV and radio signals to multiple properties or rooms from one central point. In a block of flats, rather than each flat having its own aerial or satellite dish — which is impractical, expensive, and often prohibited by freeholders — a single IRS installation serves everyone.
Modern IRS systems can distribute Freeview, Freesat, Sky, and international satellite channels simultaneously from a single rooftop installation. Our commercial engineers design, install, and maintain IRS systems across all property types.
Who we work with
- Housing associations and local authorities
- Property management companies and managing agents
- Residential freeholders and residents' associations
- Property developers and new-build contractors
- Hotels, serviced apartments, and holiday lets
- Student accommodation providers
- HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) landlords
- Offices, restaurants, bars, and commercial premises
- Schools and educational establishments
New development installations
We work with developers and contractors on new-build residential and mixed-use developments from pre-installation planning stage through to sign-off. We advise on system specification, install head-end equipment and distribution infrastructure at first-fix stage, and complete installation at second-fix. We provide full compliance documentation and system warranties for new-build handovers.
Maintenance contracts
For commercial clients who need guaranteed uptime, we offer annual maintenance contracts. These include scheduled inspection visits, priority response for faults, and an agreed callout response time. Maintenance contracts are available for IRS systems, commercial satellite installations, CCTV systems, and audio-visual installations.
Landlord and HMO services
HMO landlords have a particular challenge: they need reliable TV reception for tenants but can't control how individual tenants treat equipment. We design HMO aerial and satellite systems to be robust, tamper-resistant, and easy for tenants to use — and offer maintenance contracts to ensure issues are resolved quickly when they arise.
Frequently asked questions
What is an IRS and does my block of flats need one?+
An IRS (Integrated Reception System) distributes TV signals from a single installation to multiple flats. If your block doesn't have a communal system, each flat needs its own aerial or dish — which is impractical and often forbidden by the freeholder. An IRS solves this cleanly and is the industry-standard solution for purpose-built and converted blocks.
Can you upgrade an old communal aerial system?+
Yes. Many communal aerial systems installed in the 1990s and early 2000s are now technically obsolete — they don't distribute the full Freeview or satellite signal cleanly to all flats. We assess existing systems, identify the weakest points, and either upgrade the head-end and distribution amplifiers or recommend a full replacement.
Do you work with property management companies?+
Yes. We work with managing agents, freeholders, and residents' associations across London and Surrey. We can provide documentation, risk assessments, and warranties in the formats required for commercial clients.
Can a single satellite dish serve multiple flats?+
Yes. An IRS system with a wideband LNB can distribute Sky, Freesat, and Freeview signals from a single dish installation to multiple flats simultaneously. We design and install these systems specifically for London's converted period properties and purpose-built blocks.
Do you provide maintenance contracts for commercial clients?+
Yes. We offer annual maintenance contracts for IRS systems, CCTV installations, and commercial AV setups. Contracts include scheduled inspection visits and priority response for faults. Please contact us for a quote.
