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Ask DS?? How long are utility easements good?

Posted: Fri Feb 21, 2014 8:20 pm
by 99beers
I have a small power line running thru my property that has been here for a good while. How can you tell or know how long the easement is good for? Entergy wants an arm and leg to move it. Can't even build a storage building under it.

Re: Ask DS?? How long are utility easements good?

Posted: Fri Feb 21, 2014 9:13 pm
by Deltaquack
You can put structures on an easement.....a shed or such would be fine. Problem is.....they can do what ever and don't have to replace it if they need to get in there and work. Do they keep it mowed?

Utility easements are usually forever unless it specifies different on your deed.

Re: Ask DS?? How long are utility easements good?

Posted: Sat Feb 22, 2014 2:05 am
by Curtdawg88
It varies from easement to easement just depends on how the contract is written. I think Entergy is usually 99 year leases. And you are correct about not building anything in the easement. Deer stands aren't technically supposed to be there but they let those slide. If you build a shed and they find it they can make you tear it down.

Re: Ask DS?? How long are utility easements good?

Posted: Mon Feb 24, 2014 7:19 am
by Deltaquack
Curtdawg88 wrote:It varies from easement to easement just depends on how the contract is written. I think Entergy is usually 99 year leases. And you are correct about not building anything in the easement. Deer stands aren't technically supposed to be there but they let those slide. If you build a shed and they find it they can make you tear it down.
There's one in my parents' yard. We asked if they were going to maintain it and they said no. We closed it in with fence and have a shop on a slab on it and a metal moveable shed on it. Anytime they've mentioned it, they've been told to maintain it. They've always said not to worry about it. I almost recently bought a lot to build a business on. It had a gas and electricity easement on it. I was allowed to build on it....but didn't want to take the risk of them tearing my parking lot out if they needed in there.

An easement and a lease are two totally different things.