Monetary amount for a sewage easement

[Cody Plemmons]

I have an empty lot that I am looking to build on. The property does not have sewer available, but I have contacted the adjoining owner behind the lot for an easement through his property and he is ok with it. I am wondering what amount should I pay him for this? Just throw a number out or by the foot or what? I asked him if he a number in mind and he said he had no idea either.

[Matt Devincenzo]

When we have things like this come up for developer clients they will have an appraisal done to establish a reasonable value. So reach out to a local appraiser and explain what you need. Things like how buildable that land is, or the total impact to future buildability come into play. For example what if he can build a home on that lot, but your sewer completely restricts the ability to do so...you've essentially 'cost' him whatever the market value of a home minus construction costs are, and should compensate him as such. Now in reality it's worth whatever you both agree to...that could simply be good will and neighborly relations...but I'm sure an appraisal will further that goal by ensuring you both feel fairly compensated.