Whether you're building a renewable energy site, installing fiber optics, or expanding transportation infrastructure, securing access to land is a critical early step. But acquiring the land isn’t the only hurdle. How you manage that access can be the difference between a smooth project and costly delays. That's where right-of-way (ROW) services come in.
Here are five essential ROW services that can make or break your project:
1. Landowner Negotiations
Your project depends on cooperation with landowners, and that relationship starts with the initial contact. Skilled ROW agents serve as the face of your project, balancing firm representation of your interests with respectful, trust-building communication. Miss this step, and you risk stalling the entire timeline due to miscommunication or mistrust.
2. Title and Abstracting
Clear ownership is non-negotiable. A comprehensive title search and abstract ensures you’re dealing with the right party and flags any encumbrances that could cause legal issues down the road. Skipping this critical service (or doing it halfway) can result in surprises that are expensive to fix later.
3. Surveying and Mapping
Precision matters. Accurate surveys and GIS mapping define your ROW boundaries and help prevent disputes or encroachments. They also inform your engineering, permitting, and construction teams. Poor data here can lead to redesigns, rerouting, or regulatory setbacks.
4. Permitting and Regulatory Compliance
Right-of-way often crosses multiple jurisdictions, each with its own permitting requirements. ROW professionals help you navigate the maze. They help with securing environmental clearances, crossing permits, and local approvals to keep your project moving forward. Delays in this area can derail even the most well-funded initiatives.
5. Damage Settlements and Ongoing Landowner Relations
The project doesn’t end once construction starts. ROW service providers manage damage claims, restoration, and post-construction issues to protect your reputation and reduce legal exposure. These follow-up efforts help maintain goodwill and secure future access if expansion or maintenance is needed.
Partner With a Team That Advances Your Project!
Vanguard Real Estate Solutions brings together decades of experience in land acquisition, project development, and right-of-way services across energy, infrastructure, telecom, and transportation sectors. Our interdisciplinary team of partners includes brokers, attorneys, engineers, and ROW professionals who handle every detail with precision. We keep your project on track and relationships strong.
Ready to advance with confidence? Contact Vanguard today or go ahead and book an appointment with Chad, VP of Business Development, to start your project with the right foundation.