Assets and property

We manage a wide range of assets and property, from community buildings and open spaces to land used for public services. Part of this responsibility includes handling easements, which is the legal rights that allow others to use council-owned land for specific purposes, such as access or maintaining utilities.

Easements help ensure that our property can support wider community needs while protecting council ownership.

What is an easement?

An easement is a legal right that allows someone who is not the property owner to use part of the property for a specific, limited purpose. Easements do not transfer ownership; they simply grant access or usage rights.

Common examples include:

• allowing a neighbour to cross council land to reach their property
• granting utility companies access to install or maintain infrastructure such as water pipes, power lines, or drainage systems
• providing access for maintenance of shared boundaries or pathways

Key points

• Easements are legally binding agreements.
• They are usually recorded in the property’s deed or title.
• Easements remain in effect even if the property is sold.

How to apply

If you have questions about easements or wish to apply for one, please contact our Assets and Property team.

Email us: property.estates@waverley.gov.uk

Download our land and building assets register

(link downloads as spreadsheet - .xlsx file)

Community Asset Transfer Policy

Background

Until now, the council has not had a policy outlining the approach and decision-making process governing expressions of interest for the transfer of assets owned by or under stewardship of the council deemed suitable for transfer to a Voluntary or Community Organisation (VCO).

A new policy has been written to guide and ensure a transparent and consistent approach by the council when considering expressions of interest for a Community Asset Transfer to a VCO.

The exec report includes an illustrative selection of transfer enquiries received for parcels of land across the Borough providing without prejudice examples of what would be assessed using the procedures and criteria set out in the proposed policy.

Having an adopted policy provides clarity on the steps to take both for the applicants when preparing an expression of interest for consideration, and the council when assessing it. It enables a decision-making process governing the transferring of land to a VCO to be undertaken on a consistent and fair basis.

Application process

Apply online:

Community Asset Transfer (CAT) Expression of Interest Form

Related documents

Further information about the policy and wider approach can be found in these documents:

Report to executive

Community Asset Transfer Policy

Equality Impact Assessment