Tennessee Easement or Right of Way for Access to Property is a legal concept that grants individuals or entities the right to use someone else's property for a specific purpose, mainly for accessing their own property. Such easements are crucial in cases where a property is landlocked or when the only available access is through an adjacent property. In Tennessee, several types of easements or right of way for access to property exist, including: 1. Express Easements: These easements are created by an explicit agreement between the property owner and the party seeking access. The agreement is typically documented in a written contract or through an easement deed. Express easements provide clear rights, obligations, and limitations for both parties involved. 2. Easements by Necessity: Also referred to as implied easements, these are created when the circumstances require a right of way for access to a property. Easements by necessity are often established in situations where a landlocked parcel lacks any reasonable alternative route for ingress or egress. This type of easement is generally recognized when there is historical evidence of a prior common owner who divided the property. 3. Easements by Prescription: In Tennessee, easements may also be acquired through adverse possession, commonly known as easements by prescription. This occurs when an individual or entity openly and continuously uses another person's property for a specific period of time (generally 20 years) without the owner's permission. To claim an easement by prescription, the claimant must demonstrate that their use of the property was open, notorious, continuous, hostile, and exclusive. 4. Easements by Agreement: Apart from express easements, property owners may voluntarily grant easements by deed, contract, or other written agreements. These easements are established through a consensual understanding between the parties involved, allowing access for specific purposes such as utility maintenance, driveway use, or trail passage. It's essential to note that while easements grant rights to access a property, they do not bestow ownership or control over the land. The easement holder must adhere to any restrictions and obligations specified in the agreement and respect the property owner's rights. Understanding the various types of Tennessee easements or rights of way for property access is crucial when engaging in real estate transactions or dealing with landlocked properties. Consulting with a qualified attorney who specializes in real estate law is highly recommended ensuring proper documentation and compliance with relevant regulations.