Permission to use property by the giving of an easement creates a(n)

An easement grants permission to use a portion of someone's property for a specific purpose, and this arrangement creates a legal claim known as an encumbrance. An encumbrance refers to any claim, lien, charge, or liability attached to a property that can affect its value or the ability to transfer ownership. By allowing another party to utilize part of the property—such as for access, utilities, or drainage—the property owner provides a right that can affect how the property can be used in the future.

The concept of an encumbrance highlights that while the property owner retains ownership, the rights associated with the easement might limit their use of that property in certain ways. Thus, easements are a fundamental example of encumbrances in real estate, emphasizing the concept of rights and restrictions placed on property ownership within the realm of property law.