How Long Does a Condo Screen Installation Take?

The installation itself is often the shortest part of a digital signage project. Approvals, ordering and scheduling around a busy building usually take longer. Here's how the time typically breaks down.

Phase 1: Survey and proposal

A walk-through with management usually takes an hour or two, depending on how many locations you're considering. Turning the survey into an itemized written proposal takes a few business days, sometimes longer if wall investigation is needed.

Phase 2: Board approval

This is the most variable phase, and it's driven by the board's meeting schedule and the approval route:

• Board approval only: as soon as the next board meeting.
• Notice to owners required: add the notice period, during which owners may requisition a meeting. See owner approval under section 97.
• Owner vote required: add the time to call and hold an owners' meeting.

For many buildings, this phase is measured in weeks to months, not days.

Phase 3: Ordering and scheduling

Commercial displays and enclosures are ordered once the project is approved. Lead times vary with model and supply. In parallel, the contractor schedules with management, books the electrician and arranges any other trades, such as a painter for specialty finishes.

Phase 4: Installation

Actual on-site time depends on:

• Number of screens
• Mounting method (recessed takes longer than surface)
• Wall construction
• Distance to power and data
• Working-hour restrictions in the building

For flush-mounted screens, wall finishing often needs a second visit once patching compound has dried, so one location may be visited more than once.

Phase 5: Commissioning and handover

Testing, content setup and staff training usually follow immediately after installation.

How to keep it moving

• Get the survey done early, before the budget meeting, so the proposal is ready when the board meets.
• Ask your manager about the approval route up front, so notice periods are planned for, not discovered.
• Approve the full scope at once, even if installation is phased, to avoid repeating the approval process.
• Pick screens that are in stock if timing is critical.

A firm schedule should be part of any written proposal.