What distinguishes an easement appurtenant from other types of easements?

An easement appurtenant is characterized by the involvement of two distinct parcels of land: one that benefits from the easement, known as the dominant estate, and one that is burdened by the easement, known as the servient estate. This relationship is fundamental to the concept of an easement appurtenant, as it ties the easement directly to the property, enabling the owner of the dominant estate to benefit from the easement.

The dominant estate has a right of use or access over the servient estate, creating a lasting connection between these properties that remains even if the ownership of one or both changes hands. This characteristic sets easements appurtenant apart from other easements, which might not involve such a direct relationship or may pertain to more temporary uses.

For example, in contrast to easements in gross, which benefit an individual rather than a parcel of land, easements appurtenant enhance the value and usability of the dominant estate. Understanding this relationship is crucial for property owners and those involved in real estate transactions.