As a homeowner, it's easy to assume that you have full control over every inch of your property. However, this isn't always the case. Many properties include easements that give utility companies, like those providing fiber internet, limited access to specific areas for maintenance, upgrades, or installation.
Understanding these utility easements and their impact on your property can give residents peace of mind throughout the construction process. Find out everything you need to know about utility easements and how they relate to fiber internet installation.
What is a utility easement?
A utility easement (also referred to as a right-of-way) is a specific type of easement that allows someone, like a utility provider, to pass through or use an individual’s property without conferring ownership. This area is often found in front of the home along the street or even in between homes along the property line. These easements are utilized for various utilities, including water, gas, electricity, and now, fiber optic internet.
Why are utility easements important?
These easements ensure vital services like power and internet can reach each home and have minimal disruption. With utility easements, providers can repair and upgrade essential services without needing to request access each time they need it.
How can you find out if your property has an easement?
The fastest way to find out if there’s an easement on your property is to check your deed. If your property has an easement, you cannot build a structure or fence that could hinder a utility company, for example, from accessing that land.
How wide are most utility easements?
Easements can vary in size, generally ranging from 10 to 50 feet wide. However, internet providers typically operate within a 5 to 10-foot area in a resident’s front yard. Homeowners should always be aware of their property’s specific measurements when adding any elements to their front yard, such as dog fences, sprinkler systems, and landscaping/hardscaping.
The bottom line
If your area is in the middle of the fiber internet installation process, it can be nerve-wracking to wonder if your lawn will look the same after it’s all over. However, you can rest assured that your property will be restored to the way it was (or better!) once the land restoration phase is complete.
For more details on Ripple Fiber’s process, watch our construction process video or read our blog all about our fiber internet installation process.