As an editorial note, we've asked our followers to suggest topics that are top of mind. In an ongoing series, we will address your concerns.

I have an issue with communications providers, specifically SONIC, installing equipment onto my properties without my authorization or approval. Sometimes, they drill into stucco, creating water damage.

My understanding is that there are ordinances that protect my right to have a say when my property gets altered. Further, the damage can be a violation of the lease.

You are correct in saying that there are statutory obligations of all parties. The tenant, communications provider, and the landlord should all be on the same page.

There may be aberrations, but we don’t find this to be a widespread problem. Comcast, AT&T, and what have you, have been by and large communicative with landlords on their intent to set up service. The vast majority of units are already wired by some provider and the new one works off of old paths, normally without incident, yet there are exceptions.

Some technicians lack proper training and/or do a poor job, as you have painfully discovered.

When there is damage of any kind to the rental unit because of a service provider, it is not an evictable offense, but the issue becomes one of cost which should be accounted for at the end of the lease. Ultimately, the tenant is responsible for any damage, which accentuates the importance of a move-in and move-out inspection to document a “before and after,” considering normal wear and tear.

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Certainly, if there is any indication of water damage that has occurred as a result of the installation of equipment (or for any other reason for that matter), the owner should remediate it without delay.