Easements & Liens

Question 1

It has been long-standing that my driveway crosses over my neighbor’s property – you would call that an ____________. Which estate is ‘dominant’, mine or my neighbor’s? What would you call my neighbor’s estate?

Answer 1

Easement Appurtenant. Mine, because I benefit from the easement. Servient

Question 2

What is it called if a utility company has an easement over many properties?

Answer 2

Easement in gross or an utility easement

Question 3

If someone uses the property of another in a way that is open and notorious, exclusive, and adverse to the best interests of the true owner, you would call this ____________. What are two other names for this situation? ____________ or ____________. For how many years would you have to have use of that person’s property to make a claim of ownership?

Answer 3

Squatters Rights. Easement by Prescription, Adverse Possession. Ten Years

Question 4

If a person has the right to cross over your property, it’s an ____________.

Answer 4

Easement

Question 5

If a thing is crossing over your property line, that’s an ____________.

Answer 5

Encroachment

Question 6

If you buy materials from a supply house and fail to pay them, they can file a ____________.

Answer 6

Mechanic’s Lien

Question 7

An ____________ burdens a property and makes it less marketable. These include liens (debts), easements (someone else using it), deed restrictions (limitations on use), and taxes.

Answer 7

Encumbrance