Talking to your kids if your house is targeted for eminent domain 

If your house has been targeted for eminent domain action, explaining the situation to your children can be difficult. While property owners are entitled to fair compensation if the government takes their private property for public use, the eminent domain process can be understandably unsettling for families. It may be a particularly challenging situation for children to process, given that it may seem like a brutally unjust and unsettling turn of events. 

You may, understandably, not want to worry your kids unless you have good reason to. As such, you may opt to avoid telling them about the risk of eminent domain if the outcome of your situation is uncertain. However, if your house has been condemned, it’s time to have a tough talk. Being open and sensitive while addressing their concerns can help them cope with this situation to the best of their ability. 

Start with simple explanations

When talking to your children about eminent domain, start with a simple explanation that is age-appropriate. You might explain that the government needs the land for a new project that will benefit the community, such as a new road, school or park. Emphasize that this is something beyond your control, but reassure them that your family will receive compensation to help you all find a new home.

For younger children, focus on making the situation understandable without overwhelming them. For example, you could say, “The government needs our house to make a new road, and we’ll find a nice new place to live.” Older children may have more questions about the process, the timeline and how the family will adjust, so be prepared to provide more detailed, age-appropriate explanations.

Address their emotions

It’s important to recognize that children, especially those who have lived in their family home for a long time, may feel a sense of loss or confusion. For many kids, home is a place of comfort and stability, and the idea of moving due to condemnation can be upsetting. Acknowledge their feelings and reassure them that it’s okay to be sad, angry or confused about the situation. Let them express their emotions openly, and offer reassurance that your family will go through this together. “Looking on the bright side” will be important eventually, but it’s also important to give your kids room to grieve. 

With all of this being said, it’s important to remember that you need support during this time too. In the event that it may still be possible to fight back or challenge the value of an offer, don’t hesitate to seek legal guidance as proactively as you can.