In real estate, what does the term "servient parcel" refer to?

The term "servient parcel" refers to a property that holds or is subject to an easement. In the context of easements, there are two relevant properties: one that benefits from the easement (known as the dominant parcel) and the one that is encumbered by it (the servient parcel). This means that the servient parcel allows the dominant parcel certain rights of use over it, but it does not itself benefit from those rights.

Understanding the concept of a servient parcel is crucial for real estate transactions, as it clarifies the relationship between property owners when an easement exists. For example, if someone has an easement to cross a neighbor's land to access a road, the neighbor's land is the servient parcel because it is the property that provides access.