What is meant by dominant tenement in real estate?

In real estate, the term "dominant tenement" refers to a property that benefits from an easement over another property, known as the servient tenement. This means the dominant tenement has the right to use a portion of the servient tenement's land for a specific purpose, such as access or utility rights. The key aspect of the dominant tenement is that it derives a benefit from the easement, allowing its owner to utilize the servient tenement's land in a way that enhances the value or usability of their own property.

This concept is crucial in property law as it clarifies the relationships between parcels of land particularly when easements are established. Understanding the dominant tenement helps define rights and responsibilities between property owners, ensuring that the interests of both parties are respected while granting essential rights.