What Is a Right-of-Way (ROW) in NH Real Estate?

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🏡 What Is a Right-of-Way (ROW) in NH Real Estate?

When buying in Plymouth, Campton, Thornton, Rumney, Ashland, or anywhere in Central NH, you may come across the term Right-of-Way, commonly referred to as ROW.

A ROW can affect access, privacy, improvements, and long-term property rights. Because ROWs are legally recorded and stay tied to the land, understanding them before closing is essential.

Here’s what NH buyers should know.

⭐ What Is a Right-of-Way (ROW)?

A right-of-way is a legally recorded right that allows someone other than the property owner to use a specific part of the land for access or utilities.

A ROW may allow:

✔ Vehicle access

✔ Foot access

✔ Utility installation and maintenance

✔ Neighboring parcels to reach a public road

✔ Public travel (less common for residential homes)

ROWs “run with the land,” meaning they remain in place even if the property is sold.

⭐ Common Types of ROWs in New Hampshire

✔ Access ROW

Allows another property owner to drive or walk across your land to reach theirs.

✔ Utility ROW

Allows electric, sewer, water, cable, or fiber companies to install or service lines.

✔ Private Road ROW

Applies when a private road serving multiple homes crosses several lots.

✔ Pedestrian ROW

Allows foot travel only—common near lakes, trails, or shared footpaths.

✔ Public ROW

Owned or controlled by a town or state for public travel.

⭐ Why ROWs Are Common in NH

ROWs are very common in New Hampshire because:

• Many rural lots lack direct road frontage

• Steep or rocky terrain limits driveway placement

• Older farm properties were subdivided

• Multi-home access roads often require shared use

• Utilities need defined pathways across private land

⭐ How ROWs Affect Property Use

A ROW can impact:

⚠️ Privacy

⚠️ Where you can build structures

⚠️ Driveway and garage placement

⚠️ Lender approval (legal access is required for financing)

⚠️ Future property improvements

⚠️ Resale value

Because others may legally cross or use a portion of your land, it’s important to understand the boundaries and terms.

⭐ What NH Buyers Should Check Before Closing

Buyers should confirm:

✔ The ROW is legally recorded in the deed or subdivision plan

✔ The exact ROW location is shown on a survey

✔ The allowed type of use (vehicles, utilities, pedestrians, etc.)

✔ Whether maintenance responsibilities are defined

✔ No active disputes with neighboring owners

✔ The ROW provides legal access acceptable to lenders

Understanding the ROW fully helps avoid future issues with access, privacy, and development.

⭐ Keywords

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Jim Johnson — Real Estate Agent

58 NH Route 25A

Wentworth, NH 03282

P: (857) 249-7392

W: www.JimJohnsonRealEstateAgent.com

Licensed New Hampshire REALTOR® with Three Hills Real Estate Services

Broker Email: info@ThreeHillsRES.com

Broker Website: www.ThreeHillsRES.com