An implied easement—also known as an easement by implication; an easement by way of necessity; an easement by implied grant; or an easement by implied reservation—is an easement created after an owner of two tracts of land has used one tract (the servient estate) to benefit the other (the dominant estate) to such a degree that upon the sale of the dominant estate, the purchaser could reasonably expect the use to be included in the sale (to run with the land).
In Michigan, an implied easement is recognized by law and can be established under certain conditions. This type of easement arises when a landowner uses one part of their property (the servient estate) for the benefit of another part (the dominant estate) in such a way that, upon selling the dominant estate, the buyer would reasonably expect the use to continue. For an implied easement to be recognized, there must typically be a clear indication that the use was meant to be permanent and apparent at the time of the severance of the two estates. Additionally, the use must be necessary for the enjoyment of the dominant estate and not merely convenient. Michigan courts will consider the history of the property and the intentions of the parties involved to determine if an implied easement exists. It's important to note that the specifics of establishing an implied easement can be complex, and an attorney can provide guidance on how the principles apply to individual circumstances.