What is Utility Easement?
Definition of Utility Easement in Construction
A utility easement is a section of land that is set aside for the routing of underground utilities. The easement is established on another owner’s property, due to conditions that require access over this property to reach the property requiring the utility. The utility easement is a formal, legal process, that enables the access to a construction project for utility purposes. The utilities can be electrical, sanitary lines, water lines, gas lines, etc. In many cases the utility easement will be a portion of property that is established prior to the approval for the construction project, and is a commitment identified within the lease and closing documents of the project.
A utility easement is an important document, and the establishment of this will probably require extensive legal research and documentation. Due to the importance of establishing a timely approval of a utility easement, this type of activity should be started at the onset of the projects design and development.
Failure to secure a utility easement can cause a project to fail. All utility companies will require, if they are installing within a legal easement, all the formal approvals and paperwork, prior to starting their service installation. If a utility easement is required, it is extremely important and one of the primary elements of a successful project. Then the application and securing of this utility easement must be formally managed and professionally coordinated.