In an easement appurtenant, what is the dominant tenement?

The dominant tenement refers to the property that benefits from the easement in an easement appurtenant. In this context, it is important to understand that easements often involve two properties: the dominant tenement (the one that gets the benefit) and the servient tenement (the one that bears the burden).

When a property has an easement appurtenant, it means that the dominant tenement has the right to use a portion of the servient tenement for a specific purpose, such as accessing a road or pathway. This relationship enhances the usability or value of the dominant tenement, making it advantageous for its owner.

Recognizing the role of the dominant tenement is crucial for understanding property rights and the implications of easements in real estate law. Specifically, this knowledge can assist property owners and potential buyers in evaluating how easements might affect the value and use of a property.