easementlaw
Junior Member
What is the name of your state? Minnesota
Recently my husband and I purchased a 20 acre parcel that is land locked and accessible only by an ingress/egress easement driveway that was set forth in our deed. This was farmland that was divided up into 4 - 20 acre parcels, two back and two front. We purchased the far back right parcel. The easement is a 66 ft driveway that primarily runs between the front 2 parcels. The "driveway" was a very narrow rough gravel road that farm equipment had used in the past.
We do not plan on builiding for another four years - however two of our new neighbors have started to build their homes. In order for the power company to bring power to the neighbors, they required that the road be "finished" or at least built up. Without our consent or knowledge, the two neighbors began work on the road - done primarily with their own equipment and man power.
About a month ago, they sent us and our other non involved neighbor a bill for $3000.00 each payable in 30 days - mandated by them. They claim that they spent $12,000 on the road (gravel and rental of road equipment) and that we owe 1/4. There was never an agreement (especially since we were not aware) that we would ever pay any money to them. This road was finished for their own needs (to get power). I do not think we owe them a dime legally - and if we should decide to help out with any amount we can decide how much. There is no driveway upkeep clause that has to do with the easement. Am I right in thinking that we legally owe them nothing?
Recently my husband and I purchased a 20 acre parcel that is land locked and accessible only by an ingress/egress easement driveway that was set forth in our deed. This was farmland that was divided up into 4 - 20 acre parcels, two back and two front. We purchased the far back right parcel. The easement is a 66 ft driveway that primarily runs between the front 2 parcels. The "driveway" was a very narrow rough gravel road that farm equipment had used in the past.
We do not plan on builiding for another four years - however two of our new neighbors have started to build their homes. In order for the power company to bring power to the neighbors, they required that the road be "finished" or at least built up. Without our consent or knowledge, the two neighbors began work on the road - done primarily with their own equipment and man power.
About a month ago, they sent us and our other non involved neighbor a bill for $3000.00 each payable in 30 days - mandated by them. They claim that they spent $12,000 on the road (gravel and rental of road equipment) and that we owe 1/4. There was never an agreement (especially since we were not aware) that we would ever pay any money to them. This road was finished for their own needs (to get power). I do not think we owe them a dime legally - and if we should decide to help out with any amount we can decide how much. There is no driveway upkeep clause that has to do with the easement. Am I right in thinking that we legally owe them nothing?
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