Compulsory Purchase Compensation: How to Maximise the Money You’re Entitled To
If your home, land or business is affected by a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO), one of the first questions you’ll have is: how much compensation will I get?
The good news is that UK law provides a clear framework to ensure you receive fair financial compensation. The bad news is that the process can be complex, and without professional advice you risk leaving money on the table.
What Compensation Can You Claim?
Under the Compensation Code and the Land Compensation Act 1973, affected owners and occupiers are entitled to a package of payments, including:
Market Value of Your Property or Interest – what your asset is worth in the open market, ignoring the CPO scheme itself.
Basic Loss Payment / Occupiers Loss Payment – an additional 7.5%–10% of value, recognising disruption.
Disturbance Costs – covering relocation, professional fees, moving costs, lost profits, stock run-down, and other direct expenses.
Severance & Injurious Affection – if only part of your land is taken, you may be entitled to money for the reduction in value of what remains.
Fees – the acquiring authority must usually pay your reasonable professional fees for surveyors and solicitors.
Why You Could Miss Out Without Advice
Authorities rarely volunteer the full scope of what you can claim. Many claimants assume compensation is limited to the market value of their property — but in reality, disturbance and additional payments can significantly increase the amount you receive.
For example:
Business owners may be entitled to stock losses, goodwill, and relocation costs.
Homeowners can claim moving expenses and incidental costs.
Investors may recover tax, stamp duty and professional fees for reinvestment.
A surveyor specialising in CPO cases ensures every valid head of claim is identified, evidenced and properly presented.
The Negotiation Process
Once a CPO is confirmed, negotiations begin with the acquiring authority. Their initial offer may not reflect the full entitlement under law. Having an experienced, RICS-regulated surveyor on your side helps:
Establish a robust valuation of your property and claims.
Submit a detailed schedule of losses and expenses.
Negotiate directly with the authority to secure a fair settlement.
Prepare for referral to the Upper Tribunal (Lands Chamber) if agreement cannot be reached.
Why Choose Olden Property
At Olden Property, we act exclusively for claimants — never for acquiring authorities. We ensure you receive the maximum compensation you are entitled to, not just what the authority first offers.
Chartered Surveyor & RICS Registered Valuer
Specialist in residential, commercial and investment CPO claims
Transparent approach: fees are normally covered by the acquiring authority
Final Word: Don’t Leave Money Behind
A Compulsory Purchase can feel daunting, but with the right advice, you can turn a forced sale into a fair financial outcome. If you’re facing a CPO, don’t settle for less than you’re owed.