In any case of appraisal of benefits or assessment of damages because of any public work or improvement, notice of the time and place for a hearing upon such appraisal or assessment shall be given to the persons to be affected thereby, if known, at least ten days before the time of hearing. Such notice may be given by depositing in the post office, postage paid, a notice of the pendency of the proceedings, signed by the clerk of the municipality in interest and addressed to such persons. In the case of an estate of a deceased person in process of settlement, notice to the administrator or executor having charge thereof shall be deemed to be notice to the owner.