Revenue Recognition
All leases are classified as operating leases and minimum rents are recognized on a straight-line basis over the terms of the leases. The excess of rents recognized over amounts contractually due pursuant to the underlying leases is included in deferred rent in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and contractually due but unpaid rents are included in accounts and other receivables.
Tenant reimbursements for real estate taxes, common area maintenance, and other recoverable costs are recognized in the period that the expenses are incurred. Lease termination fees, which are included in other revenue in the accompanying consolidated income statements, are recognized over the new remaining term of the lease, effective as of the date the lease modification is finalized, and assuming collection is probable. During the three months ended December 31, 2016, we recognized a non-cash gain on lease termination of approximately $29.2 million, as one of our tenants, as part of a lease termination, conveyed substantially all of its colocation and turn-key improvements to the Company.
Colocation services are generally governed by a master terms and conditions agreement (MTC). Customers typically execute an MTC for one- to three-year terms. The Company bills customers on a monthly basis and recognizes the revenue as those services are performed over the term of the agreement. Revenues from installation services for colocation services are initially deferred and recognized on a straight-line basis over the average life of customer contracts.
Interconnection services are generally provided on a month-to-month, one-year or multi-year term under the MTC for colocation services. Interconnection services include port and cross-connect services. Port services are typically sold on a one-year or multi-year term and revenue is recognized on a recurring monthly basis similar to colocation services. The Company bills customers on a monthly basis and recognizes the revenue in the period the service is provided. Revenue for cross-connect installations is generally recognized in the period the cross-connect is installed.
A provision for loss is made if the collection of the receivable balances related to contractual rent, rent recorded on a straight-line basis, tenant reimbursements and lease termination fees is considered to be doubtful.
About Revenue Disclosures
Revenue disclosures under ASC 606 explain how a company identifies performance obligations, allocates transaction prices, and determines when revenue is recognized. This section is essential for understanding whether reported revenue reflects genuine economic activity or aggressive accounting choices. Analysts examine the mix of point-in-time versus over-time recognition, which directly affects revenue timing and comparability.
Key signals: rising contract liabilities (deferred revenue) suggest strong future revenue visibility, while declining contract assets may indicate slowing project milestones. Watch for variable consideration estimates — rebates, returns, and performance bonuses that require management judgment. Significant changes in disaggregated revenue by geography or product line can reveal shifting business mix before it appears in headline numbers. Compare revenue growth against contract liability growth to assess sustainability, and scrutinize any changes in the timing of recognition that coincide with earnings pressure.