Title: Time Warner digging through my yard. Making a mess.
Question:Charlotte, NC. I just feel a little violated. I'm in construction and understand things need to get done, but shouldn't they have stuck to the easements? Should they have notified me? Do homeowners have rights in these situations?

http://imgur.com/gallery/MhXGGLl
Answer #1: If they have a deeded easement on your property, they don't have to get your consent. Generally they will do what they can to minimize damage, but if you constructed something in the easement that interferes with it's use, then it's your responsibility. (a driveway might be a specific exception) I think generally they try to minimize damage. If they don't have a deed easement , you can stop them from doing any work.

You will need to check map of your property on file at the county records or look at your deed. If you have your closing papers there should also be a copy with it.
Answer #2: Engineer here. I commonly work with utilities. To answer your questions:

Yes, they have to stick to your easement. No, they do not have to notify you as long as they're in your easement.  Yes, they should have notified use as a common courtesy. Yes, you should go talk to them immediately if you know they're outside your easement (silence is consent). Yes, you should make them move the line (and repair the damage) if you can prove they're outside your easement.

Ninja edit: they may be trying to work around the trees on your property. Keep in mind that they're allowed to chop down the trees on your property to put their line in. But homeowners typically don't want these trees chopped down and it costs the utility more money to chop them down. So they move the utility a few feet this way to avoid the trees and make everyone happy. Bottom line: go talk to them.Answer #3: I don't see any mess? It's just a few guys working who could clean their work up afterwards.
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