What type of easement grants the right to use a property and is specific to the property owner?

An appurtenant easement involves a relationship between two properties: the dominant estate, which benefits from the easement, and the servient estate, which allows another party to use a portion of its property. This type of easement is tied to the land itself and carries with it specific rights that benefit the owner of the dominant estate, regardless of who owns it. As property is sold or transferred, the easement typically remains with the property.

This is particularly important because it establishes an ongoing usage right that does not end when the property owner changes. It enhances property values and clarifies access rights, making it essential in real estate transactions where access to a road, a beach, or a resource is concerned.

The other types of easements mentioned have distinct features. An easement in gross is specific to an individual rather than a property and doesn't transfer with the land. Prescriptive easements arise from prolonged use of another's property without permission, typically leading to legal rights after certain conditions are met. A negative easement prevents a property owner from performing certain activities on their land, such as blocking a view or light, which differs from the positive rights granted by an appurtenant easement.