The Orbit Tech - Professional Starlink Installation in Northern Virginia
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Getting Started8 min read

Pre-Installation Site Survey Checklist

A thorough site survey before installation ensures optimal Starlink placement, prevents delays, and helps you understand exactly what to expect. Follow this professional checklist used on our 500+ installations across Northern Virginia.

ER
Eric Robinson
Lead Technician • 500+ Installations

Why Site Surveys Matter

The foundation of successful installation

A proper site survey prevents 90% of installation issues we encounter. Taking 30 minutes to assess your property beforehand can save hours of work, prevent additional costs, and ensure you get the best possible performance from your Starlink system.

90%
Issues Prevented
30min
Time Needed
$0
Cost to DIY

Complete Site Survey Checklist

Sky View Assessment

  • Check for clear view of northern sky (45-60° elevation)
  • Identify trees, buildings, or structures in line of sight
  • Note seasonal tree coverage (bare vs. full foliage)
  • Measure distance to nearest obstructions
  • Document roof pitch and orientation

Mounting Location Options

  • Roof peak or ridge line (ideal for most homes)
  • Gable ends or lower roof sections
  • Ground mount locations with clear sky view
  • Pole mount positions (for obstructions)
  • HOA-compliant hidden locations if required

Cable Routing Path

  • Measure distance from dish to router location
  • Identify attic, crawlspace, or exterior routing options
  • Check for existing cable entry points
  • Note obstacles (electrical, HVAC, insulation)
  • Plan conduit needs for exterior runs

Documentation Needed

  • Photos of potential mounting locations
  • Images of sky view from each position
  • Pictures of cable routing path
  • Property layout sketch or diagram
  • HOA documents (if applicable)

Step 1: Sky View Assessment

Starlink requires an unobstructed view of the northern sky at 45-60° elevation. This is the most critical factor for optimal performance.

Using the Starlink App

1
Download the App

Available free on iOS and Android - search "Starlink" in app stores

2
Access "Check for Obstructions"

Found in the main menu - no account or equipment needed

3
Scan Each Location

Test every potential mounting spot, moving slowly to capture full sky view

4
Screenshot Results

Save results for each location to compare and share with installer

Pro Tip: Test during the same season as installation. Trees that are bare in winter may block the view when fully leafed in summer.

Common Issues & Solutions

+$300-$800

Heavy Tree Coverage

Elevated pole mount (12-20ft) or ground mount in clearing

+$100-$400

HOA Restrictions

Ground-level mount or strategic roof placement

+$150-$300

Complex Roof Structure

Professional mounting bracket or alternative location

+$75-$150 per 50ft

Long Cable Distance

Exterior conduit or strategic router placement

Documentation Tips

What to Document

Photos to Take

  • Wide shots of entire property
  • Close-ups of potential mounting spots
  • Sky view from each location
  • Cable routing path options
  • Interior router location

Measurements Needed

  • Distance from dish to router
  • Roof height (if applicable)
  • Cable run length estimate
  • Distance to nearest obstruction
  • Property boundary limits

Ready for Installation?

Once you've completed your site survey, you're ready to schedule professional installation. Share your documentation with us for an accurate quote and timeline.

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ER

Eric Robinson

Founder & Lead Technician

500+ Starlink installations • Licensed & Insured (VA #2705165655)

Eric has personally conducted over 500 site surveys and installations across Northern Virginia. His systematic approach to site assessment has helped hundreds of homeowners achieve optimal Starlink performance from day one.

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Download Printable Checklist

Get our professional site survey checklist in PDF format to use during your assessment.