Reading the title: easements, covenants, encumbrances
The bottom line
Every interest on the title either gives someone rights over your land or restricts what you can do with it.
The record of title shows the owner, the legal description, the type of estate, and every registered interest. An easement lets someone cross or drain through your land. A covenant restricts what you can build. An encumbrance attaches a charge. A caveat says someone claims an interest.
Our title review explains each one in plain English with a colour-coded plan. The cheat sheet in this lesson lists the fourteen interests that actually matter.
Check yourself
What is an easement?
A right for someone else to use part of your land, such as for access or drainage.
What is a covenant?
A restriction on what you can do with the land.
What does a caveat on a title indicate?
Someone claims an interest in the property.
Talk it through
Want a lawyer to check your situation?
A free 15-minute call with a property lawyer who only works with first home buyers.