How do I handle easements on a property?
Worried an easement will tank your sale? Here’s exactly how to handle easements on your property — fast, legal, and with no surprises.
What is an easement and why it matters
An easement gives someone else a legal right to use part of your land. Common types: utility easements, right-of-way, access easements, and conservation easements. An easement affects value, title transfer, insurance, and use of your property. Treat it like a legal burden, not a guess.
Quick checklist: First 5 steps to handle an easement
- Pull the title and deed history. Look for recorded easements. If it’s not in the title, it may be unrecorded — still enforceable.
- Order a current survey. Confirm the physical location and whether the easement encroaches on structures, driveways, or landscaping.
- Read the easement language. Check scope, duration, maintenance responsibilities, and whether it’s exclusive or non-exclusive.
- Talk to neighbors and the utility company. Often the easiest route to clarification or relocation is an honest, documented conversation.
- Consult a real estate lawyer early. Small costs now prevent big costs at closing or in litigation.
Practical solutions based on common scenarios
- If the easement is minor (utility box, buried cable): Confirm location, document access agreement, and move on. Disclose it in the listing and to buyers.
- If the easement blocks development: Explore modification or vacation. That requires consent from the easement holder or a court order. Start negotiation with proof (survey, alternative plans, compensation offer).
- If it’s an unrecorded or implied easement: Collect evidence (use, necessity, length of use). A lawyer can help convert this to a formal agreement or remove it if you have a strong case.
- If the easement is being abused: Document violations, send a demand letter, and seek injunctions or damages through legal counsel.
Negotiation tactics that work
Lead with clarity. Show the survey, a remediation plan, and a cash offer if relocation or modification is needed. Ask for a written amendment or release. Use a real estate attorney to draft or review any modification to avoid future disputes.
Protect value and close clean
Disclose all easements in the seller’s disclosure. Buyers and lenders expect clear title. If an easement threatens closing, push for (a) formal easement agreement, (b) release, or (c) title insurance endorsement that covers the issue.
Final word — act early, document everything
Easements are legal facts, not mysteries. Treat them like title defects: identify, document, negotiate, and resolve before marketing the property. That prevents surprises and preserves sale price.
For expert help on legal documentation, easement review, and negotiation — contact Tony Sousa. He’s a local real estate pro who handles easements every week and gets deals closed clean.
Email: tony@sousasells.ca
Phone: 416-477-2620
Website: https://www.sousasells.ca
