What Are Easements? Property Guide for Buyers in Sydney
When you’re buying property, most people focus on price, location, and the loan.
But one thing that gets missed — and can cost you later — is easements.
At Truth Group, I help buyers identify risks before they commit, including things hidden in the title like easements that can affect how you use your property.
Here’s what you need to know
What Is an Easement?
An easement is a legal right that allows someone else to use part of your land for a specific purpose.
They don’t own your land — but they have rights over it.
And that can impact:
– Where you build
– What you can change
– How much your property is worth
Common Types of Easements
Right of Way
Allows access across your property (e.g. shared driveway)
Utility Easements
Power, water, sewer, gas lines
You usually can’t build over these
Drainage Easements
Controls water flow
Can limit extensions or landscaping
Conservation Easements
Protect environmental or heritage features
Restricts development
Private Easements
Agreements between neighbours
(e.g. shared access)
- How Easements Affect Property Value & Use – This is where most buyers get caught out.
- 1. Building Restrictions
You might not be able to:
Build extensions
Install a pool
Add structures
2. Impact on Property Value Some – buyers avoid properties with:
- Large easements
- Access issues
This can affect resale later
3. Legal Obligations
Easements stay with the property
Even after you buy it
4. Maintenance Costs
You might be responsible for:
Shared driveways Access roads
5. Privacy Issues
Some easements allow:
Foot traffic Vehicle access
Not ideal for families
How to Check Easements Before Buying
This step is critical — and often skipped.
What To Do If a Property Has an Easement
Not all easements are bad.
But you need to assess them properly.
Do Easements Affect Home Loans?
Yes — and this is where I come in.
Lenders look at:
Property value Risk factors
👉 A major easement can:
Reduce valuation Affect borrowing capacity
Why This Matters (Real Talk)
I’ve seen buyers:
Overpay for properties with restrictions Get stuck with land they can’t use properly Miss issues completely until settlement
That’s avoidable.
How I Help at Truth Group
I don’t just help with loans — I help you avoid bad property decisions.
I’ll help you: ✔ Review the contract and title ✔ Identify risks (like easements) ✔ Structure your loan properly ✔ Assess if the property is actually worth it
Thinking about buying?
Before you commit, let’s make sure:
– The property stacks up
– There are no hidden issues
– Your finance is set up properly
Need help with property or finance?
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