Tower Inspection FAQs

The ANSI/TIA 222 code calls for tower inspections to be completed at three-year intervals for guyed masts and five-year intervals for self-supporting structures and following severe weather or other extreme conditions.  Coastal regions, corrosive environments and other factors could reduce the inspection intervals.

Tower inspections may include a detailed inspection report of the broadcast system, structure components, guy wires, lighting and ancillary equipment. Reference photographs are included in the report and noted accordingly for the corrective action needed. The report is prioritized by what is urgent and what should be on a mid-to-longer term capital plan or operational budget. Inspections can help prevent costly repairs, modifications, remediation, or replacements and are recommended at least every three to five years or following severe weather or extreme conditions.

In general towers over 200 ft tall require obstruction lighting to be in compliance with the FAA requirements.  LED lighting is an energy-efficient solution that is cost-effective and low-maintenance. It is also more visually appealing than other lighting types, making it an ideal choice for tower lighting.

A broadcast tower inspection typically costs between $7,500 and $15,000 depending on the size, location, and complexity of the tower.  Precision Communications would be happy to provide your organization with budgetary pricing for your specific site.  

Scheduled inspections of communications towers can provide many benefits to the owner, such as identifying and mitigating potential safety hazards, reducing liability, minimizing costly unexpected repairs, and improving the tower’s ability to satisfy local regulations.

1. Ensure the tower is structurally sound 

2. Check for rust, corrosion, or other signs of deterioration.
3. Identify any potential safety hazards.
4. Evaluate current and potential interference with other towers.
5. Verify the security of the tower and its components.
6. Check for hazards caused by wind and weather conditions.
7. Inspect the tower lighting, grounding systems, and emergency systems.
8. Inspect all electrical wiring and components.
9. Make sure the tower is in compliance with local laws and regulations.
10. Check for any signs of vandalism and theft.

Inspections of communications towers must be performed by a qualified professional. Top inspectors are well versed in structural, safety, electrical/RF, lighting and/or other ancillary systems that may be on your tower.  

Yes, tower inspections are required under the ANSI/TIA 222 Structural Standard for Antenna Supporting Structures and Antennas, which is enforced by local building code adoption.  

Some insurance companies require inspections on your communications tower.  The insurance companies may have inspection intervals that are more stringent than the traditional 3-5 year cadence.  Precision has worked with many insurance companies as a liaison between insurance companies and the owner regarding finds of the reports.  

A tower inspection report is a document that provides detailed information on the condition of a tower, its components, and any potential safety concerns. It generally includes a visual inspection of the tower, including any visible damage or deterioration, as well as a review of the tower’s structural components, hardware, and lighting. The report will also include the results of any tests or measurements taken, along with any recommended repairs or maintenance. The overall goal of the report is to ensure the tower is safe and in good working condition.

An electrical inspection on a communications tower is traditionally focused on the broadcast system, looking at the electrical characteristics of your transmission line and antenna.  Precision’s inspectors are equipped with RF/network analyzers to identify where potential issues may be on your tower.  Identifying issues early may prevent an off-air emergency.  

No, a physical inspection of broadcast towers are generally recommended in order to ensure its safety and functionality. Drone inspections may be useful as a supplement to a climbing inspection, but they cannot replace it.

Drone inspections may be useful as a supplement to a climbing inspection, but they cannot replace it.  There are several tower issues that can be detected at early stages through an inspector hearing or feeling vibration during the inspection.  Some issues on the inside of the tower may be hard to detect from a drone that has to maintain a safe distance outside of the tower structure.  Small repairs may also be done at that moment versus needing to send a crew following the delivery of an inspection report.  

When looking for a tower inspection company, it is important to consider their experience and qualifications, safety record, the cost of the services they provide, and the quality of their customer service. Additionally, it is important to ensure the company is licensed and insured, and that they follow all applicable industry regulations and standards.  Precision Communications is insured and brings decades of experience in the tower inspection space.  

Inspecting guy wires on a tower requires checking for damage such as corrosion, fraying, peening, as well as verifying the tension of each wire. It is important to ensure that the wires meet the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure the tower remains standing and safe.