An easement is a legal right that allows a third party—like a utility company, neighbor, or city—to use part of your property for a specific purpose. Common types include:
You still own the land, but the easement holder gets legal access to that section when needed.
While you keep ownership, you can’t block or build over an active easement. That means:
No fences across a shared driveway No tree planting over utility lines No permanent structures over a drainage pathThis can impact your landscaping, home additions, or even fencing plans, so it’s key to understand the layout upfront.
Your title company will uncover any easements as part of the title search during the buying process. Before closing:
Ask for a survey or plat map showing easement boundaries Review the purpose, size, and who holds the easement Confirm you’re comfortable with any limitations on your future plans
Surprises after closing? Not fun. Know before you own.
Download our free “First-Time Buyer Game Plan” eBook — includes a property inspection checklist and easement explainer
Chat live now to ask about surveys, shared driveways, or title reports
Schedule a call with a Stairway Mortgage advisor to make sure your dream home isn’t tied up with unwanted strings
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