Handling Unwanted Cable Lines Installed Without Permission

Dealing with cable lines that are installed without your permission can be frustrating. This article will provide guidance on how to approach this situation, including legal advice and steps to take to remove such lines from your property.

The Struggle with Cable Companies

Local cable companies sometimes install lines on private properties without proper authorization, leading to disputes between neighbors and property owners. In my area, this is a common issue. Companies may run cables through or over property without considering property rights.

Navigating Easements and Legal Advice

One example involves a local cable company that ran a cable diagonally from my roof to my neighbor's yard years ago. After years of using the line, the company claimed it posed a hazard, and tried to negotiate with me unsuccessfully. Their refusal to address my concerns led me to seek legal advice.

The lawyer's advice was surprising yet straightforward. We sent a certified letter to the company, stipulating a 30-day window for them to remove the cable or face removal at their expense. This strategy proved effective; the company typically began the removal process well before the 30-day deadline.

Preventative Measures and Legal Protection

Based on these experiences, I'll no longer allow such installations on my property. Here’s how you can prevent this.

Check for Easements: Before allowing any company to install a cable line, ensure there is no existing easement that allows them to do so. An easement would typically be documented and registered with local property records. Proper Grounding Depth: If the line is buried, verify the required depth for such cables. This information can usually be found in local building codes. Legal Action: If a company installs a cable without an easement or permission, sending a certified letter with the parameters for removal can be effective. You can also hire a lawyer to formalize the process.

Steps to Remove the Cable

If you encounter a situation where a cable line has been installed without your consent, here’s what you can do:

Locate the Entry and Exit Points: Determine where the cable enters and exits your property. Cut the Line: At both entry and exit points, carefully cut the cable. Ensure you are not damaging any buried utilities. Dispose Properly: Pull the cut cable up and off your property, ensuring it is placed in a manner that does not deter your neighbor from using their yard. Check for Easements Again: Even after removal, ensure there are no residual easements that could be contested or lead to further legal disputes.

Conclusion

While it's helpful to be a good neighbor, sometimes property lines and rights can't be avoided. If a cable company continues to install lines without authorization, it's important to take legal steps to protect your property and privacy.

By understanding your rights and taking appropriate measures, you can prevent and address such installations effectively, ensuring your property remains yours to use as you see fit.