Easements Appurtenant and in Gross

This lesson examines the distinction between easements appurtenant (easements that exist to benefit another parcel of land) and easements in gross (easements that benefit an individual or business entity without regard to his or its ownership of land). The distinction is a crucial one in determining who is entitled to the benefit of the easement and how the easement may be used.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the lesson, the student will be able to:

1. Define the following terms: easement appurtenant and easement in gross.
2. Distinguish between who is entitled to the benefits associated with an easement appurtenant and an easement in gross.
3. Differentiate between the uses associated with an easement appurtenant and an easement in gross.
4. Contrast the easement rights of subsequent transferees from the original easement owners of an easement appurtenant and an easement in gross.