What is the difference between a right of way and an easement?

What are Easements and Rights-of-Way? Easements are nonpossessory interests in real property. More simply, an easement is the right to use another’s property for a specific purpose. Rights-of-way are easements that specifically grant the holder the right to travel over another’s property.

Is a right of way always an easement?

A right of way is a type of easement. Normally a right of way easement is agreed upon by adjoining landowners. A right of way may be granted to allow an individual to cross one property in order to reach another property, or to allow for a more convenient point of access.

Is right of way a negative easement?

There must be two adjoining properties; one of which has the benefit of the right, known as the dominant tenement (this is a positive easement), and one which has the burden of the right, known as the servient tenement (this is a negative easement). The owners of the two properties must be different from each other.

Can a Neighbour block a right of way?

A Any substantial interference with a right of way is a nuisance in common law. The owner of the right (known as the “dominant” owner) can apply to court for an injunction and damages if the landowner (or “servient” owner) blocks it.

Can you legally block a right of way?

Can a person block a right of way?

If your right of way is blocked in any way, this can cause inconvenience. However, to be able to take action against the person causing the inconvenience, the blockage must be a substantial interference. The starting point is to obtain expert legal advice on exactly what your rights are.

How do easements affect property value?

Generally, easements do not create a negative effect on your property value unless it severely restricts the use of the property. Most property owners still have full use of the property and do not experience any negative consequences.

How does an easement affect a right of way?

Namely, that “ While an easement or right-of-way gives a landowner the right to enter and use the land of another, [and some change in use is permitted due to normal growth and development] the owner of a dominant estate may not increase the burden nor materially enlarge his right over the servient estate .”

Can a dirt road be an easement in North Carolina?

We have paid for snow plowing and general maintenance. The owner decided to pave the road but did not get a general agreement from the property owners. We were happy with a dirt road.

Can a private road be blocked by an easement?

For example, a private road on your land that was created by easement can’t be blocked off by you, because that would prevent the easement’s holder from using it. Easements must generally be used for their original purposes though their uses can be changed to suit reasonable development.

Can a property owner force an easement to be removed?

The owner of the easement can take legal steps to force the owner of the property to remove it. You should know where all easements are located and what restrictions are associated with them before you purchase a property. Not every easement is found on the face of property deeds like warranty or grant deeds.