Section 22-2-62. Evidence to be heard by assessors generally

   (a) The assessors shall hear all evidence offered by either party as to the value of the property or of any interest therein to be taken or used, the damages incurred by the owner of the property or of any interest therein, and the benefits to the owner accruing from the use of the property or interest by the condemnor.

(b) Prospective and consequential damages resulting from the taking may be considered if such damages are plain and appreciable.

(c) The increase of the value of the property or of any interest therein resulting from the proposed public improvement may be considered, but in no case shall such estimated increase deprive the owner of actual damages.

(d) In the estimation of the value of the property or other interest taken for public uses, such valuation need not be restricted to the agricultural or productive qualities of the property or interest, but inquiry may be made as to all other legitimate purposes to which the property or interest could be appropriated.

Orig. Code 1863, §§ 622, 623; Code 1868, §§ 686, 687; Code 1873, §§ 647, 648; Code 1882, §§ 647, 648; Ga. L. 1894, p. 95, § 18; Civil Code 1895, §§ 567, 568, 4674; Civil Code 1910, §§ 688, 689, 5224; Code 1933, §§ 36-503, 36-505, 36-506.