The Cost of New Technology

We all want to have access to the best and newest technology services, but what happens when the cost is a bit, well, ugly. It seems like every time you look up from an electronic device there is a newer, shinier version available, and these new phones come with new cellular networks, which come with new infrastructure.

In many neighborhoods across the country, consumers are coming out of their homes to discover that large, grey, and ugly boxers have been installed in their yards, frequently without any notice.

The 5G network began its roll out in 2019 and is expanding to more an more neighborhoods as 5G replaces the 4G network that most cellular phones currently use. The dishwasher sized boxes that are appearing in yards supply the power to the antennas on electric and telephone poles, and more boxes and antennas are expected to appear as the network expands in 2021.

So, what can you do if a box magically appears in your yard? Truthfully, not much. According to   Floridarealtors.org, “Wireless companies don’t need permission from homeowners before installing them. They don’t even need to notify homeowners beforehand because the boxes are installed on a public right-of-way. This land is owned by the county, even if it appears to be someone’s front yard.”

Many homeowners are concerned these boxes could hurt their property value, but this may just be an instance of life giving you lemons, so let’s make lemonade. Utility boxes in yards is not a new or unusual occurrence and there are many websites and blog posts dedicated to suggestions for how to design landscaping to conceal these necessary eyesores.

With spring just starting, now is a great time to refresh your home’s curb appeal. Be sure to check with the utility company before any major redesign to confirm that there are no safety hazards to the box, your home, or the workers from the changes you are making. For more tips on how to get your home ready for spring check out https://theshavergroup.net/six-tips-to-get-your-home-ready-for-spring/.