Easement

The right to enter or use another person’s land for a specific purpose

Utility companies commonly get easements to install poles and string wire across private land. You can create an easement either with a written contract or deed, government action, or if you can prove that you made use of someone’s property for 5 or more years. For example, if your home is landlocked, and you have to cross your neighbor’s property everyday to reach the street. Two common ways to end an easement are by court action or quitclaim deed. An easement is also called right-of-way.

See: Quitclaim deed