Gas main line: Protective strip crosses property

Hello everyone,

My wife and I are currently considering buying a plot of land (approx. 1000 sqm) and building a single-family house on it.

After taking a close look at the development plan, we realized that a gas main pipeline (DN 300) including a 10m protection strip cuts through the plot over a length of approx. 12m.

In principle, the existing building window (of course outside the protection strip) would be sufficient for our construction project. However, as landowners, we would have to grant the operator access in this area. In addition, only shallow-rooted plants, etc. are allowed to be planted there. This is not a problem at all, but I do not want to have to redesign my garden every 5 years. By the way, the neighboring plot from which the pipeline "comes and goes" belongs to the municipality.

- Does anyone have experience with this issue?
- How often do such pipelines need to be maintained/dug up/replaced?
- Is the landowner compensated in case of maintenance/earthworks?
- Do extra insurances have to be taken out because of the pipeline?

I would be grateful for your experiences, reports, and recommendations!

I don't believe they want to do it every 5 years. More like every 30 years, if at all.

And why should you have to redo the garden? If the utility company flattens your lawn, they must restore it to its original condition afterwards.

However, the disadvantage should be reflected in the price.

- How often do such pipelines need to be maintained/excavated/replaced?

As long as nothing happens: basically never. The thing is not regularly excavated, especially not when there is development in the immediate vicinity.
However, you have to expect that maybe once a year a gas detector will inspect the pipeline. You have to grant them access.

- Is the property owner compensated in the event of maintenance/earthworks?

The property is restored to its original condition. Additionally, there is compensation for surface damage and possibly for vegetation.

- Must extra insurance be taken out because of the pipeline?

No, it doesn’t belong to you. As long as you (especially in civil engineering) observe the protection strip, nothing can happen.

Great! Thanks!