Is It Legal to Install a Mobile Repeater in Your UK Business Premises?

Updated July 2025

In the UK, it is legal to install a mobile repeater on business premises if the equipment is Ofcom-compliant and either licence-exempt or properly licensed. Using uncertified boosters is illegal and can lead to fines or prosecution. Businesses must ensure the repeater is from an approved category, meets technical standards, and is professionally installed to avoid interference.

Follow-up questions

What regulations govern the use of mobile repeaters in UK businesses?

• Repeaters are regulated by Ofcom under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 2006. Only licence-exempt equipment or systems operating under a valid licence are permitted.

Which types of repeaters are legal without a licence?

• Indoor and vehicle repeaters meeting Interface Requirement IR 2102, including certified 4G/5G boosters, are licence-exempt.

How can businesses confirm their repeater is compliant?

• Check for CE marking, technical specification compliance, and whether the equipment appears on Ofcom’s exemption list.

What should businesses consider when installing a repeater?

• Site survey, antenna placement, network integration, and professional installation are all critical for compliance and performance.

What are the risks of using an illegal booster?

• Penalties include fines up to £5,000, equipment seizure, prosecution, and liability for interference with public networks.

How much do compliant solutions cost, and are they worth it?

• Legal systems cost more upfront but offer reliable signal, future-proofing, and no legal risks, often delivering long-term ROI.

Are there examples of compliant deployments in UK offices?

• Yes—UCTel has deployed 500+ legal installations in sectors like healthcare, corporate HQs, and universities.

Understanding UK regulations on mobile repeaters (Ofcom & WT Act 2006)

The Wireless Telegraphy Act 2006 governs radio equipment use in the UK. Ofcom permits only:

• Licence-exempt repeaters that meet IR 2102
• Licensed repeaters with formal approval

Repeaters must not cause interference, extend coverage beyond the building, or operate on unapproved frequencies. Businesses remain liable for any non-compliant system, even if installed by a third party.

Which repeaters are licence‑exempt — indoor, vehicle, 5G?

Licence-exempt repeaters must:

• Be static indoor or low-gain vehicle devices
• Comply with IR 2102
• Self-configure and shut down on fault detection
• Be certified for use with 4G/5G networks in the UK

Important: “5G-ready” does not mean legally approved. Always check the Ofcom exemption register.

How to verify a compliant repeater (CE, technical specs, Ofcom list)

Use this checklist:

• CE marking and Declaration of Conformity
• Meets Interface Requirements IR 2102
• Listed on the Ofcom-approved equipment register
• Supports only licensed UK operators (EE, O2, Vodafone, Three)

Providers like UCTel supply fully certified solutions like Cel-Fi Quatra, ensuring full documentation and compliance.

Practical steps: installation in commercial buildings (planning, antennas, professionals)

To install a compliant repeater:

1. Conduct a site survey to assess coverage gaps
2. Design system architecture (donor + distribution antennas)
3. Select IR 2102-compliant equipment
4. Plan safe cabling routes
5. Implement a phased installation schedule to reduce disruption

Use qualified professionals to manage integration, compliance, and documentation.

Risks of illegal boosters: fines, network disruption, legal liability

Illegal equipment risks include:

• Up to £5,000 in fines per offence
• Network interference complaints
• Equipment seizure by Ofcom
• Legal liability for the business owner

Even if supplied by a contractor, you remain liable. Only buy from verified suppliers with proof of certification.

Cost vs benefit: choosing the right solution for your business

While grey-market devices are cheaper, certified systems avoid fines and deliver:

• Reliable, multi-operator coverage
• 5G support
• ROI through improved productivity and fewer complaints

A legal booster system typically pays off over 3–5 years.

Case studies: compliant repeater deployments in UK offices

UCTel has delivered 500+ installations, including:

• NHS hospitals (secure, uninterrupted comms)
• Universities (multi-building Cel-Fi Quatra deployment)
• Corporate offices (phased rollout, no disruption)

These projects show that legal compliance and high performance are fully achievable with the right provider.

Struggling with poor mobile signal in your workplace?

UCTel offers fully compliant solutions tailored to UK business premises.

Start with a free site survey and discover how to stay connected—legally and reliably.

Frequently asked questions

Is it legal to install a mobile repeater in my UK business premises?

• Yes, if it’s Ofcom-compliant and either licence-exempt or licensed. Illegal devices are prohibited.

What types of repeaters are licence-exempt in the UK?

• Repeaters that meet IR 2102, including indoor boosters, vehicle repeaters, and approved 5G models.

How can I verify if a repeater is compliant?

• Check for CE mark, IR 2102 compliance, and presence on the Ofcom register. Always buy from a trusted source.

What are the risks of installing an illegal repeater?

• Fines, prosecution, equipment seizure, and network interference affecting your and nearby businesses.

Do I need professional installation?

• Yes. For performance and legal compliance, professionals handle antenna layout, integration, and documentation.

How much do compliant repeater systems typically cost?

• Usually several thousand pounds, depending on size and complexity. But the cost is offset by performance and legality.

What steps are involved in installing a compliant repeater?

• Survey, design, equipment selection, installation, testing, and compliance paperwork.

Can I install a 5G booster legally?

• Yes, but only if it’s on the Ofcom-approved list and installed in accordance with IR 2102.

What happens if I use a non-compliant booster supplied by a contractor?

You, the business owner, are still legally responsible. Fines apply even if you didn’t know.

If your business is struggling with poor mobile coverage, start by requesting a free site survey. A compliant, professionally installed solution will keep your business connected—and legal.

Conclusion / TL;DR

• Only Ofcom-approved repeaters are legal in the UK
• Licence-exempt devices must comply with IR 2102
• Illegal boosters = fines + network risk
• Use professional installers to meet compliance and performance standards
• Certified solutions deliver safe, reliable, and future-proof mobile coverage