Utility Easement

[Mr. Chenevert]

I am purchasing a new home in Houston... on the survey it clearly shows a 14' utility easement running on along the rear of the property, but inside the fence.

I plan to lock the gate to deny access to the backyard for security purposes.

While I understand that the utility company needs to have access to the easement, am I required to leave the gate unlocked so they can have access at anytime? Or is it reasonable to assume that they can wait for me to unlock the gate before entering...

[musicman]

While I understand that the utility company needs to have access to the easement, am I required to leave the gate unlocked so they can have access at anytime? Or is it reasonable to assume that they can wait for me to unlock the gate before entering...

put on the lock. they CAN contact the owner(s) of the property they find most advantageous (ease of access). however, they'll go on the property that is the easiest to access esp when the owner isn't there. they've done this several times to my parents, even though the easement is behind their lots. last time, the police got involved and the men were escorted off the premises.

[Original Timmy Chan's]

I agree that you can lock up your property.

I think it's important that you're aware not to build anything in that easement that you won't mind losing. The city/HL&P/other utilities have the right and responsibility to maintain their lines within that easement. Don't build a shed, pool, garage, shrine, etc. out in that easement or you risk losing it. My understanding is that the utility entity is not required to replace anything that's in the easement.