Internet is considered as an essential utility. You are probably using the internet and not realizing it. Every social media service you use, every email you write, even Youtube video watched – all uses the Internet. If you have children, they likely need the internet for school. With all of that said, internet is a requirement. In Allegheny County, Xfinity is the likely provider, but Verizon will serve some communities.
The reason internet is required by the realty company is for email communications. When option is made available, email will be the preferred way of communicating. This will involve sending .pdf files of documents you asked to receive. You can also send files to the realty agent as well. Internet service is essential for email communications. If you are renting a house, internet is required for the snow melt system, and for the RFID card system. These two components are essential for proper operation of the unit. You will be responsible for the cost of Internet. If you are low income, you can apply for Xfinity’s Internet Essentials program. This will give you a 75MBPS connection for $15/month. You would be required to use their router/modem combination. This will be placed in the communications closet, and from there connect the LAN (including the Access Points) to the Internet.