Easements and rights of way0 answersAI answer
My title report mentions a utility easement along the back of my lot. What does that mean for me?
Asked October 25, 2026
AI answer · not yet verified by a surveyor
An easement gives someone else a right to use part of your land for a specific purpose, while you still own it [1].
Common types:
- Utility easements: for power, water, sewer, gas or communications lines.
- Drainage easements: to carry stormwater.
- Access easements: a driveway or path that a neighbor may use.
How it affects you:
- You usually can't build permanent structures (sheds, pools, additions) inside the easement.
- Utility crews may be allowed to enter, and to remove fences or plantings to do their work.
- You can generally still use the area for lawn and ordinary yard use.
Easements are shown in your title report and often on the recorded plat [2]. A surveyor can draw their exact location on your survey. Ask for that before building near the back of the lot.
General information only. Answers here are not a survey or legal advice, and no one here can tell you where your boundary is. For your property, hire a licensed land surveyor in your state; for legal questions, a real-estate attorney.