Easements
What Is an Easement?
An easement is a legal right that allows someone to use another person’s property for a specific purpose, without owning it. Easements are commonly used for access, utilities, or shared land use.
Why It Matters
Easements can affect property use, value, and ownership rights. Buyers need to understand any easements attached to a property before purchasing.
How Easements Work
Easements typically include:
- legal agreement or recorded right
- defined purpose (access, utilities, etc.)
- limited use of property
- long-term or permanent rights
- restrictions on property owner’s control
Example
A utility company has an easement to run power lines across a property.
Easement vs Encumbrance
- Easement is a specific type of property right.
- Encumbrance is a broader term for any claim or restriction on property.
FAQs About Easements
Do easements transfer with property ownership?
Yes, most are permanent.
Can easements be removed?
Sometimes, through legal agreement.
Do they affect property value?
They can, depending on impact.
Related Terms
