Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Florida

easment?

I own 2 ajoining lots in Sarasota county FL. Both lots are 275' deep. Lot 1 has a house on the front of it. Lot 2 has a house in the rear of it.The driveway to the rear house on lot 2 is mostly on lot 1's property.

If I was to sell lot 2 with the house in the rear, what would I do to guarantee use of the driveway, in the future.

Also, how would I sell lot2 with the rear house, if I wanted to include in the sale , the rear 1/2 of lot 1.?

Thanks


Asked on 10/28/01, 10:14 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Robert Restivo Restivo Law Firm

Re: easment?

I�m not sure I understand the layout of these parcels. You state that each is 275� deep. I take from this that each has road frontage. If that�s the case, than no action is required regarding an easement for a driveway. An easement is only necessary if Lot 2, with the �back house� had no road frontage.

Even if a common driveway is used, it need not continue if the driveway is completely on one lot.

If Lot 2 has no road access, then an easement will be created, even if it�s not specified in the deed. However, creating it in the deed is the cleanest method.

But, I believe you have two lots, each with road access. I will assume that Lot 1 has a common driveway that Lot 2 uses. If you want to continue this, without giving up ownership of the driveway, all you really need to do is post a sign that says substantially, �Right to pass by permission of owner�. Then, no prescriptive rights will accrue in Lot 2.

If you�re just selling Lot 2, and keeping Lot 1, and each has road access, my recommendation is to create a new driveway for Lot 2 and avoid the easement question entirely.

Next, selling a lot and a half. My assumption is that you will create an �L� shaped Lot 2, and a small box shaped Lot 1. This must be done though the use of a land surveyor, or similar professional. Lot 1 needs to be split. Check with your local planning department to get the specifics. Then, sell Lot 2 and a newly created Lot 3. Lot 1 will be the front house on the front half of Lot 1.

Hope this helped.

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Answered on 11/25/01, 12:32 am


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