High Cost for Temporary Relocation of Power Lines During Construction

[scooter321]

My question involves a consumer law issue in the State of: new york Hi We planned an addition to our home in seneca county, new york. The plans put our single story additiion under the existing power lines that run accross our back yard. Nyseg engineers tell us that we cannot construct an addition directly under the power lines. I understand that is an issue BUT; NYSEG informed us that it would cost $50,000 to have the power lines moved to allow construction. Nyseg also said they needed $5,000 "down" to begin the process of moving lines. THEN, if it was decided that Nyseg couldn't do the work, we would have to forfiet the $5,000! Question? Nyseg is using my property to run their lines accross it--no problem--- but if I want to build and addition; I have to pay $$$$$$ to get the lines moved? $50,000 !!!! What is the legal regulations regarding this------ HELP! Bob

[Mr. Knowitall]

If you're asking whether NYSEG can charge you for the costs associated with determining the feasibility of moving the power lines, temporarily moving the lines, and moving them back, yes.

Given that we know nothing about the power lines at issue or complexity of the task (beyond the quoted fee, which suggests a considerable level of complexity) we are not in a position to comment on the quoted figure.