I had no choice and had to lease part of my property to DOT so they could replace a bridge. They offered a set price which was based on square footage. An acquisition map was given me. I thought I was fine because they would be nowhere near my house. What damage could they possibly do?
Ripped up my driveway, mutilated my lawn and removed my walkway.
I contacted the supervisor who said I never had a walkway. My grass fills the area, not theirs. Every time I mentioned the acquisition map which had the correct walkway measurements, he ignored it or said the map is not important. He even suggested that I removed my walkway.
So, based on my experience, TAKE PHOTOS. Photos of EVERYTHING on your property no matter how silly, even detailed photos of your grass, tree barks. Take photos from your roof.
Get names of every single contractor, subcontractor that will be working. (Supervisor passed the blame and now I have to search who did what)
Make sure that if they damage anything it will be replaced/fixed according to your liking, not theirs. Have this on paper.
When they offer you money, do not accept it till their work is complete and you’re happy with your property.
I’d get somebody with a drone and high quality camera to capture aerial photos, too.