What defines an easement appurtenant?

An easement appurtenant is defined as an easement that is attached to a particular parcel of land and is transferred along with that land when ownership changes hands. This means that if the property is sold or inherited, the easement remains in effect, benefiting the dominant estate (the property that benefits from the easement) while simultaneously imposing restrictions on the servient estate (the property that bears the burden of the easement). This permanence is essential to the definition of appurtenant easements, which serve to enhance the utility and value of the dominant property.

This type of easement is distinct from others that may be temporary or revocable, which would not provide the same level of security or continuity for property owners. Furthermore, easements appurtenant are not limited to government benefit nor do they have a specified expiration, which further differentiates them from the other options presented. Understanding easements in this way is crucial for land surveying and property management, as they have significant implications for land use and property rights.