Surface Use Agreement

Landowners scheduled for Marcellus Shale gas wells are now receiving legal contracts entitled “Surface Use Agreements.”

Surface Use Agreements are additional contracts between the landowner and gas company that cover the company’s surface activity and area of disturbed acreage in constructing access roads and well site pads and locations. 

To the surprise of landowners, these well sites and areas of disturbed acreage have ballooned to over 10 acres in many occasions.

When a landowner's property is selected for a natural gas well, the landowner should immediately seek experienced legal counsel for Pennsylvania natural gas landowners in the Marcellus Shale region and a “Surface Use Agreement” if not already offered by the natural gas drilling company. 

This “Surface Use Agreement” may be negotiated to the great benefit of the landowner!

Effective negotiations of the “Surface Use Agreement” will pinpoint well and access road location, eliminate landowner surprise, and significantly strengthen the document to include other significant benefits for the landowner.

A well negotiated “Surface Use Agreement” will act as a great equalizer for property owners who did not negotiate specific compensation in the form of a "well placement fee" or other surface damage provisions in their original oil and gas lease.

If you have a “Surface Use Agreement” offer by a drilling company, contact an experienced Pennsylvania oil & gas lawyer immediately to maximize your financial benefits AND protect your cherished land.

We proudly represent our regions landowners in negotiating the best possible “Surface Use Agreements” for their property. 

Do not miss an invaluable opportunity to protect yourself and your property for future generations. Contact us today, we can help.