Compulsory Purchase Orders: When Owning Your Castle is not Enough

Have you ever heard of a Compulsory Purchase Order? It’s a legal order that allows a public authority to purchase land or property without the consent of the owner. This may include your house or any other building along with the land surrounding it. A public authority can even include a company with public duties, like an electricity or water company.

Compulsory Purchase Orders are usually implemented in various circumstances such as major building projects, flood defence works, or installation of services such as water mains or road and rail improvements.

The owner of the land or property has no choice but to sell once a CPO is confirmed, but they are paid for the land. If the property owner lodges an objection to the CPO, it is not confirmed until the objection has been considered at a public inquiry.

Although rare, there have been instances where property owners have lost all or part of their land or property due to a Compulsory Purchase Order. The government or other public bodies are able to acquire land or buildings for what is classed as the greater good. Compensation is paid to the property owner, but usually, it is not enough.

Challenging a CPO is possible through the legal system. However, it is crucial to be prepared beforehand and know the potential outcomes.

If you are faced with a Compulsory Purchase Order, it is essential to seek legal advice to ensure your rights are protected. This can help you in negotiating a fair price for your property and assistance in claiming appropriate compensation if needed.