As a property owner, it’s important to take steps to make your property more valuable, not less. Unfortunately, sometimes there are things that the city will want to do that could have a negative impact on the value of your property.
For example, if the city wants to install a transmission line or gas line on your property, there is a risk that doing so could lower your property’s appraisal value.
Fortunately, city governments are limited. They can only do what is 100% necessary and needed on a property. They also need your permission to dig on your property, so there is an opportunity for you to refuse the installation or work that is going to be done and to take your case to court if you think your property’s value will be negatively impacted.
With eminent domain, the government may have a right to take your land
In Georgia, eminent domain often does allow the government to use a portion of your property. However, you should be compensated for the damage done to your property’s value if that damage occurs.
Did you know that the Georgia courts do have the power to stop the use of eminent domain? If the utility company, for example, is planning work that is in bad faith, then the process may be stopped and your personal rights as a property owner may be upheld.
How can you fight back against eminent domain abuse?
To start with, you’ll want to take any informational documents about the plans to your attorney to discuss the necessity of the new pipeline or utility line. You will also want to get an appraisal of your property before this installation and another that assumes your new property value with the installation.
Knowing the way your property’s value will change can help you show that the work is going to be unfair to you or could help you fight for fair compensation from the utility company or government. In some cases, you may be able to go to court and argue against the use of your property for the work at all.
