Right-of-way easements, such as those acquired by public utilities, are usually called?

The correct answer is easements in gross, which are defined as easements that benefit a specific individual or entity rather than a particular piece of land. This type of easement is common for public utility companies, which require the right to enter a property to maintain or install infrastructure such as power lines, water pipes, or gas lines.

Easements in gross do not transfer with the sale of the property like appurtenant easements do; instead, they are tied to the utility company itself. This characteristic differentiates them from appurtenant easements, which benefit a specific parcel of land and automatically transfer with ownership of that land.

Understanding the nature of easements in gross is essential, especially when dealing with properties that have utilities or public services running through them. It indicates that the easement exists independently of the property owner and is usually permanent or long-term in nature, allowing the utility company continued access to perform necessary work.