Kyle Baum, a partner at Marrs Ellis & Hodge LLP in Austin, emphasized the need for property owners to seek legal counsel when dealing with pipeline companies.
“Any documents that landowners are asked to sign were likely drafted by the pipeline company’s lawyers, so they may not be in the owner’s best interest. That’s where an attorney can help evaluate.”
While landowners cannot stop the project or alter its course, they are entitled to compensation. This includes payment for the land taken and any reduction in the remaining property’s value due to the pipeline.
“Property owners will have one opportunity to receive compensation for both the land taken and any changes that affect their property.”
Kyle Baum, Partner at Marrs Ellis & Hodge LLP in Austin