The Costly Easement Mistake That Could Force You to Demolish Your New Shed
What Property Owners Must Know About Easements Before Choosing Where To Build
Just when you think you've found the perfect spot for your new shed, you discover there's something lurking beneath the surface that could turn your project into an expensive nightmare. It's not the soil type. It's not rocks. And it's not even underground pipes or electrical cables.
It's something most property owners don't even know exists on their land until it's too late -- forcing them to tear down structures they've already built (at their own expense).
This hidden danger is called an easement. And if you build over one without proper approval, you could be forced to demolish your shed (even if you've had it for years).
What Exactly Is An Easement (And Why Should You Care)?
Think of an easement like an invisible trench running through your property. It's a legal right that allows others (usually utility companies or councils) to access or use part of your land.
While you own the land, you're restricted in what you can build over these areas. And contrary to what many believe, paying standard building fees doesn't automatically give you the right to build over an easement.
The Hidden Dangers Of Ignoring Easements
Building over an easement without proper approval can lead to:
- Forced demolition of your shed (at your expense)
- Fines from your local council
- Legal battles that drag on for months
- Difficulties selling your property later
- Emergency access issues (potentially leading to property damage)
What Types of Easements Do You Need to Be Aware Of?
Different easements come with different restrictions. Here are the main types of easements you might encounter on your land:
Drainage Easements: These protect underground stormwater systems. Building over them can block access for maintenance and repairs (and even cause flooding).
Sewerage Easements: Usually wider than drainage easements, these protect main sewerage lines. Building here isn't just restricted, it could be dangerous.
Power Line Easements: These ensure safe distances from overhead power lines and access to underground power infrastructure. Restrictions often extend several meters either side.
Right of Way Easements: Common in properties with shared driveways or access ways. You can't block these even temporarily during construction.
Service Easements: These allow access for services like NBN, gas, or water. Even if you don't use these services, you can't interfere with them.
So How Do You Protect Yourself From Easement Issues?
The solution is knowing exactly what easements may exist on your property before you start planning your shed. But finding this information isn't always straightforward.
At Outdoor Steel Solutions, we've helped more than 5,000 property owners navigate these challenges over the past 20 years. Unlike most shed companies that leave you to figure out easements yourself, we handle everything.
Here's what makes our approach different:
- We check your property title for registered easements
- We liaise with your local council about any restrictions
- We use specialised software to map easements accurately
- We design your shed to work around existing easements
- We handle any special permits needed for easement zones
- We liaise with your local council about any restrictions
- We use specialised software to map easements accurately
- We design your shed to work around existing easements
- We handle any special permits needed for easement zones
The Bottom Line? Don't Let Easements Derail Your Shed Project
Building a shed without checking easements is like building with a blindfold on -- you might get lucky, but the risks are huge. With proper guidance, you can avoid these costly mistakes and build with confidence.
Want to Learn More About Building Your Shed the Right Way?
Download our comprehensive Shed Buyer's Guide. It's packed with essential information about:
- How to check for easements on your property
- Understanding building restrictions in your area
- Choosing the best location for your shed
- Navigating council requirements successfully
- Getting the right approvals first time
Don't risk having to demolish your shed because of easement issues. Get your free guide today and take the first step toward building your perfect shed -- the right way.
*Disclaimer: Names and identifying details have been changed to protect the privacy of individuals. These stories are based on real events, and any resemblance to actual persons is coincidental.
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