Incorporeal Hereditament: A Guide to Intangible Property Rights

Definition & meaning

An incorporeal hereditament refers to a type of intangible property right that can be inherited. Unlike physical property, these rights do not have a tangible form but are nonetheless attached to real estate. Common examples include easements, which allow someone to use a portion of another person's property, profits, which grant the right to extract resources from someone else's land, and rent charges, which are payments owed for the use of property.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

  • A property owner grants an easement to a neighbor, allowing them to cross their land to access a public road. This easement is an incorporeal hereditament that can be inherited by the neighbor's heirs.
  • A landowner has the right to extract timber from a neighboring property through a profit. This right, being intangible, is also classified as an incorporeal hereditament. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

State Key Differences
California Easements can be created by express grant, implication, or prescription.
New York Profits can be granted for a specific duration and may have unique regulations.
Texas Rent charges may have specific statutory requirements for enforcement.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Incorporeal hereditament An intangible right attached to property. Cannot be physically touched; includes rights like easements.
Corporeal hereditament Physical property that can be touched or seen. Includes land and buildings; tangible assets.
Easement A specific type of incorporeal hereditament allowing use of another's property. Focused on usage rights rather than ownership.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you believe you have an incorporeal hereditament or are involved in a dispute regarding one, consider the following steps:

  • Review any existing agreements or documents related to the property.
  • Consult with a legal professional for advice tailored to your situation.
  • Explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you create or modify agreements related to these rights.

Quick facts

  • Type: Intangible property right
  • Common examples: Easements, profits, rent charges
  • Inheritable: Yes
  • Legal area: Property law

Key takeaways

FAQs

An example is an easement, which allows someone to use a portion of another person's property.