Eminent Domain Blog & Resources

How Is Just Compensation Calculated?

Just compensation is more than fair market value. Learn how eminent domain compensation is calculated — including the before-and-after method, severance damages, and what agency appraisals routinely leave out.

Carbon Capture CO₂ Pipeline Easements

Summit Carbon, Wolf Carbon, and Navigator CO₂ are building carbon capture pipelines across Midwest farmland. If they have contacted you, here is what you need to know before you respond.

Pipeline Easement Agreement: What to Look For

A pipeline easement is a 30-to-50-year commitment that permanently encumbers your property. Before you sign, know what every clause means — especially the ones that look like boilerplate but aren’t.

Can You Refuse Eminent Domain?

You cannot refuse the government's right to take your property — but you can fight the amount. Learn how to challenge a low offer, delay proceedings, and maximize your payout.

How Long Does Eminent Domain Take?

The process can take three months or stretch past three years. Here is every stage of the eminent domain timeline — from first notice to final payment — and what affects how long it takes.

Temporary Construction Easement Rights

A TCE lets an agency use your land during construction — but "temporary" does not mean cheap. Learn what you are owed, what to demand in the contract, and how to protect your property.

How Much Is a Pipeline Easement Worth?

Pipeline companies lowball initial easement offers. Learn how to calculate true fair market value and negotiate from a position of strength.

Eminent Domain: What Property Owners Need to Know

A plain-language overview of the condemnation process, your constitutional rights, and how to protect yourself when a government agency comes calling.

Negotiating With a Pipeline Company: Dos and Don’ts

Before you sign anything, read this. The tactics pipeline companies use — and how to counter them to maximize your easement payment.

What Is “Just Compensation” in Eminent Domain?

The government must pay “just compensation” — but their definition and yours may differ significantly. Here’s what the law actually requires.

Transmission Line Easements: Valuation & Negotiation Guide

Electric transmission companies acquire easements at scale. Understand how they value your land and how to push back for higher compensation.

Solar & Wind Easements: What Landowners Should Know

Renewable energy projects are booming. Learn how solar and wind easements are valued, what terms to watch out for, and how to negotiate better deals.

Highway Condemnation: How to Get Fair Value for Your Property

TxDOT, NCDOT, FDOT — state DOTs regularly undervalue condemned properties. Here’s the step-by-step process to maximize your award.

Know Your Rights

Do I Have to Accept the Condemnation Offer?

No. The agency's offer is an opening position, not a final number. Learn your rights and how property owners push back successfully.

Pipeline Easements · Texas

Pipeline Easement Compensation Per Acre in Texas

Texas pipeline easement rates vary dramatically by location, land type, and pipeline size. Learn what drives your number and how to maximize it.

Partial Takings & Severance Damages Explained

When only part of your property is taken, you may also be owed severance damages for the impact on your remaining land. Most owners never claim these.

The Condemnation Timeline: What to Expect Step by Step

From initial contact to final payment — a clear walkthrough of the condemnation process so you know what’s coming and when to take action.

Condemnation Appraisal Too Low? Here’s What to Do

The government’s appraisal is not the final word on what your property is worth. If the number seems too low, it very likely is — and you have clear legal options to challenge it.

How to Negotiate an Eminent Domain Offer

The government’s first offer is almost never the best offer. Here’s how to negotiate effectively, what leverage you actually have, and the steps that get results.

Easement vs. Fee Taking: What Is the Difference?

When land is acquired for a project, you may lose full ownership or just certain rights. Understanding the difference determines what compensation you are owed.

Farmland Eminent Domain: What Agricultural Landowners Need to Know

Highways, pipelines, and transmission lines are taking more farmland than ever. Compensation owed to farmers goes well beyond the value of the strip taken.

What to Do When You Get a Condemnation Notice

A condemnation notice or offer letter is the beginning of a process, not the end. Here’s exactly what to do in the first 30 days to protect your rights.