Railroads, street or interurban railroads, mining, lighting, power, telephone, and telegraph corporations, and all other corporations, companies, persons and associations of persons, having rights and powers to condemn property may cause to be made such examinations and surveys for their proposed railroads, lines and stations, as may be necessary to the selection of the most advantageous routes and sites, and for such purpose may, by their officers, agents and servants, enter upon the lands and waters of any person, but subject to liability for all damages done thereto.