In this video, Land Rights Law Attorney Philip Hundl emphasizes the importance of checking the pipeline construction staking on your property with the plat describing the easement. You can contact Philip by calling 800-266-4870 or texting 979-320-9320. Our offices are in Wharton County, but we help landowners all over Texas.
Understanding Pipeline Construction Staking: Essential Steps for Landowners
Hi, I’m Philip Hundl, and today I’m here to discuss an important aspect of pipeline construction—staking. We’re at a site where a 36-inch gas pipeline is going to be installed underground. The construction staking has already been completed, which marks a crucial phase for landowners to be aware of.
Overview of the Staking Process
It’s vital for landowners to pay close attention to the construction staking process. This stage is significant whether the landowner has reached an agreement with the pipeline company, or if the pipeline company has gone through a special commissioner’s hearing and received an award and a writ of possession. In either situation, the landowner and their attorney should review the attached plats in the lawsuit or the easement agreement to ensure the staking on the ground matches the plats.
Verifying the Plats
The plats attached to the lawsuit or agreement are usually in black and white and not always overlayed on an aerial map, which can make verification challenging. Therefore, it may be necessary to hire a surveyor to confirm that the route is correct and matches the agreement or the pipeline company’s petition.
Identifying Staking Markers
Take a look at the staking here. If you zoom in on this particular stake, you’ll see some identification, with “CL” likely meaning the centerline of the pipeline. Compare this to the centerline indication on your easement agreement plat.
Temporary Workspace Boundaries
Now, let’s move over to the area marking the boundaries of the temporary workspace. Zoom in on this stake marked with “TWS,” which stands for temporary workspace. This stake indicates a corner of the temporary workspace. As we move along, you’ll see more stakes outlining these boundaries. In this case, white markings denote the outer boundaries of the temporary workspace, while pink flags mark the centerline.
Final Verification Steps
It’s critical for landowners to compare the stakes on the ground with the plat before construction begins. If there are discrepancies, it’s essential to contact the pipeline company, your lawyer, or the construction crew supervisor. Ensuring the stakes match the plat is crucial to confirming that the construction follows the agreed terms.
Conclusion
Thank you for your attention. If you’re a landowner affected by a pipeline, make sure to compare the plat to the stakes on the ground before construction starts. If differences are found, reach out to the pipeline company or your lawyer to address them immediately. Having the correct contact information for the pipeline company or the construction crew supervisor is key to resolving any issues.
