An easement is a limited right of use over the property of another. Common easements include:
Easements typically fall into two categories:
Under Ohio law, easements may be created in four ways: by grant, implication, prescription, or estoppel.
By
Grant – Easements by grant are known as express easements and are
established by the execution of a deed, contract, or other written
instrument. Ohio law does not
require the use of any special language in a document purporting to create
an express easement. However, the
document must be signed by the grantor and properly witnessed by two
disinterested parties and recorded in the real estate records of the
county in which the property is located.
By
Implication – A finding of an implied easement depends on the
intent of the parties and the circumstances surrounding the
transaction. An easement by
implication was arise from:
By Prescription – To establish an easement by prescription, a claimant must show that his use of the property over which he claims the easement was hostile or adverse, uninterrupted, continuous, and under claim of right with the knowledge and acquiescence of the true owner for a period of twenty-one years.
By Estoppel – Easements by estoppel arise when a landowner represents that an easement exists when in does not or a landowner permits the erection of improvements on his property by a person who believes that he holds an easement over the landowner's property. One claiming an easement by estoppel must prove:
Easement disputes may arise because one landowner is unaware of where his land stops and the adjoining land begins or because he mistakenly believes he has an easement over adjoining property.
Easement issues also commonly involve:
Because easement disputes can be very costly and time-consuming to resolve, before entering into an easement agreement, it's best to hire an experienced real estate attorney who can explain the agreement to you and ensure that you understand your rights and obligations thereunder. A real estate attorney can also draft and record the easement agreement.
If you are already involved in an easement dispute, a real estate attorney will examine your case and recommend the best course of action. Additionally, a real estate attorney can represent you in settlement negotiations and, if necessary, at trial.
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