Ministry of Transportation Property Acquisition

What is market value?

Market value is based on the amount a similar property would be expected to sell for on the open market by a willing seller to a willing buyer. Independent professional property appraisers estimate market value by inspecting each property and considering various factors, including recent sales and current listings of similar properties.

Once an appraisal has been prepared, ministry representatives will explain the appraiser’s findings and present an offer of compensation to the owner.

Property owners may also complete their own appraisals to support negotiations.

What if an agreement is not reached?

At times, the ministry must proceed with expropriation to ensure the property required for a project is available before construction.

Expropriation is a legislated process that enables the ministry to acquire property without an agreement with the owner, while still ensuring that owners are compensated for their property.

Even when expropriation is initiated, the ministry will continue, as appropriate, to seek a negotiated agreement with property owners.

Where can I get more information?

MTO is committed to working with property owners to make sure they understand the property acquisition process and their rights. If you have questions about the property acquisition process, please use the Contact Us form or:

Email us at: 413.propertyinquiry@ontario.ca
Give us a call at: 1-877-522-6916