Jim Redelfs wrote:

As the OP said, this is a "ring trip" condition.

It is usually INSIDE the home and most often caused by a defective telephone
device (telephone, modem, Caller ID box, satellite set-top box, etc) that is
connected to the line. On fewer occasions inside, it is caused by a corroded
jack.

With all (and I mean (*ALL*) equipment unplugged, if the problem persists, it
is probably a corroded connecting block (jack). These are usually found in
damp locations, most often on an exterior wall below grade.

Examine all the plug ends of the devices you have disconnected. The contacts
should be shiny and bright brass. If they are not, closely examine the jack
itself. If its contacts are not shiny brass, the jack should be replaced.
Also, whatever was plugged-in there has a corroded plug-end on the base cord.
That should be replaced, too. If it is not, it will cause the same trouble to
resume if plugged back in.

If all equipment is disconnected and all jacks appear OK, I'd just wait for
the telco tech to isolate and repair the trouble.

If you do NOT have a SNI/NID (Standard Network Interface Device), you should
NOT be billed if the trouble is inside the home. If you do NOT subscribe to
your telco's inside wiring maintenance plan, they SHOULD install the modern
device so, in the future. you CAN isolate your stuff from theirs. Also, if
one is installed - and you don't have the monthly maintenance plan - you ARE
liable for a Trouble Isolation Charge in the future. Good luck!

I have had that trouble also. It was just as you described it. And the
jack that went bad was on an outside wall, right at grade. I fixed it by
moving the jack to another location well above grade.

Bill Gill