What is an easement appurtenant?

An easement appurtenant refers to a specific type of easement that benefits a particular parcel of land, known as the dominant tenement, and allows for the use of another parcel, known as the servient tenement. In this context, the correct choice implies that it grants the right to access across neighboring properties, aligning with the fundamental concept of an easement appurtenant.

This type of easement runs with the land, meaning that it is tied to the property rather than an individual owner. When the ownership of the dominant tenement changes, the new owner automatically gains the easement rights. This characteristic makes it a vital tool in real estate, as it ensures that access is preserved for the benefit of one parcel while still respecting the rights of the property owner of the servient estate.

It's important to note that other interpretations, such as easements that may only benefit individual owners or those that serve temporary purposes for construction, do not encapsulate the defining nature of an easement appurtenant. Therefore, emphasizing the mutual benefits derived from the relationship between two properties reinforces the understanding of this legal construct in real estate.