Servidumbre de Paso, Easement of Right of Way in Spain

Comprehensive Guide to Easement of Right of Way in Spain: Types, Regulations, and Procedures

In Spain, an easement of right of way is a legal arrangement where a property owner allows another property owner to pass through a designated area, usually a path, on their land. This right, regulated by the Civil Code, is essential for ensuring access to public roads or neighboring properties without direct access.

What is an Easement of Right of Way?

An easement of right of way is a legal right that permits passage through another person’s property. This is particularly important when a property lacks direct access to a public road. The owner who grants the passage is known as the servient estate, while the owner who benefits from the right is the dominant estate.

Types of Easements

This right can be established in several ways, depending on the circumstances and the relationship between the involved property owners. Below are the main types:

  • Voluntary Easement This is established when both parties, the servient and dominant estates, agree without conflict. The agreement is formalized through a contract and registered with the Property Registry.
  • Legal Easement This type is imposed by law in specific cases. It is primarily regulated under the Civil Code, especially in situations of compulsory easement, where the law mandates the imposition of this right to ensure access to a public road.

Legal Regulation

The Civil Code thoroughly regulates this right of way, especially in cases of compulsory easement. Key articles include:

  • Article 564: Establishes the compulsory right of way when a property lacks access to a public road and must pass through neighboring properties.
  • Article 565: Defines how this easement should be exercised, ensuring minimal damage to the crossed property.
  • Article 567: Requires the owner of the dominant estate to compensate the servient estate for any damage caused.

Duration and Transferability of the Right of Way

This right can be:

  • Permanent or Temporary: It can be established indefinitely or for a specific period.
  • Transferable: It is included with the property and is transferred along with it during a sale or transfer.

How to Establish an Easement of Right of Way

This right can be established in two ways:

  1. Amicable:
    • Negotiation and Agreement: Ideally, property owners should reach an amicable agreement.
    • Contract and Registration: Formalize the agreement through a written contract and register it with the Property Registry.
  2. Judicial:
    • Court Procedure: If no agreement is reached, the easement can be requested through a judicial process.

Importance of Proper Management of Easement of Right of Way

Proper management of this right is crucial to prevent conflicts between involved property owners. Correct management ensures that the easement is used fairly and equitably, respecting the rights of both parties.

Contact us for expert advice!

We Specialize In:

  • Criminal law
  • Family right
  • Real estate law

We help you in a professional and friendly way.

We are at the following address

☎️ 971577955