- Joined
- Dec 3, 2013
- Messages
- 1,845
The only way they could get you on VOIP would be over DSL. Which requires working DSL. Which requires a working pair (unless you are to connect to their VOIP over your Comcast service, but then why would you bother with them at all?)
Call the PUC and file a formal complaint. Also call your state representative and ask him to lean on the PUC. There are solutions for them short of plowing in a new cable. They can install subscriber carrier on some of the existing pairs so that you and some of your neighbors share them. They have a state-protected monooply on telephone service in your area but with that comes a requirement that they provide that service.
The overhead lines that service my neighborhood were put in in the 60's. The material the cable is made of literally turned to mush and the lines end up with direct shorts. The service technicians refer to it as "Icky-pulp". As of 3 years ago only 30% of the pairs were still viable.
Had AT&T been the only option I would have pursued it but Broadband through cable was available and the cable was already to the house. I needed to be up and running as soon as possible. It worked out for the better in the end. I went from $65 month for a business line through AT&T to $25 a month VoIP with way more features and actual customer service.
The hard lines used to always work when there was a power outage. Not the case anymore.