HOUSTON – Rodi and Bob Franco said they have been living in a nightmare after being out of their home since Monday, when a utility pole in their front yard fell and knocked out power to the house.
To make matters worse, the Bellaire couple said they were told by CenterPoint Energy, which replaced the fallen pole, that they were responsible for all the damage, rewiring and repairs.
The Francos said they had nothing to do with the pole falling, but the price tag so far has reached $15,000.
"They are not responsible, and we are responsible," said Rodi Franco. "And it's not covered by homeowners (insurance), because it isn't part of the home."
A CenterPoint spokesperson said they are still investigating what caused the pole to fall.
In further conversation, they also said that AT&T, not CenterPoint, actually owns the pole. They said they replaced it, because it was creating a safety hazard.
The Francos plan to call AT&T, but at this point, they are still on the hook for $15,000.
"By their pole falling, they caused all of this to happen," said Rodi Franco.
The Francos have a word of advice.
"People who own property should look at their poles," said Bob Franco. "This pole broke below ground, it's not a visible, above ground evidence."
CenterPoint said the public usually has no way of knowing who owns the utility poles on their property. They said if property owners have questions or concerns, they can call CenterPoint, which can determine ownership.