Many property owners assume that leasing their rooftop for a mobile phone mast is a convenient and profitable source of income. But in reality, most rooftops are not suitable for such installations — and more importantly, that space may be worth far more than you think.
Property owners are increasingly realizing that rooftops are not just “empty space” or “free real estate.” Rooftop space is a valuable asset that can generate sustainable income in a variety of ways — and in many cases, even more than a mast lease.
Is the rent really worth the structural impact?
What’s often overlooked is the weight of the steel structure, mast, and equipment that sits on your rooftop. This additional load can compromise the building’s long-term structural integrity, especially in older buildings or those not designed to carry that kind of stress.
While the monthly rent may seem attractive, the long-term costs of repairs, reinforcements, or even reduced property value might outweigh the benefits.
Before locking yourself into a long-term lease, consider these alternative uses that can offer similar or even higher returns — without risking your property’s structure.
Smarter Ways to Monetize Rooftop Space
1. Build upward: Maximize the value of your property
If your building can structurally support it, adding an extra floor — or transforming your rooftop into a rooftop bar, café, co-working space, or event venue — can generate far more income per square meter than leasing to a mobile phone operator.
You’re not only boosting monthly revenue, but also increasing the overall value of your property in the long term.
2. Install solar panels: Turn sunlight into steady income
Using your rooftop for solar panels can significantly reduce electricity costs. In many cases, the monthly savings can rival what you’d earn from a mast lease. And with the right system, you can produce more electricity than you consume, selling the excess back to the grid for profit.
It’s a sustainable, low-maintenance investment that pays off year after year.
3. Grow a rooftop garden: Urban farming with financial and lifestyle returns
Rooftop gardens aren’t just a trendy lifestyle choice — they’re a practical source of income and self-sufficiency.
Growing pesticide-free vegetables can help cut household expenses or even turn into a side business supplying neighbors or local restaurants.
On top of that, a green rooftop improves your building’s image, enhances sustainability, and adds value to your property.
Conclusion: Your rooftop is worth more than you think
Leasing rooftop space for a mobile phone mast may seem like the easiest option — but it’s not always the most profitable or future-proof one.
Your rooftop holds hidden value.
Before signing a long-term lease, consider the alternatives that may bring you higher returns, better flexibility, and lower risk to your property.