What is a claim or liability that is attached to real property called?

A claim or liability that is attached to real property is referred to as an encumbrance. This term encompasses various forms of burdens on a property that could affect the owner's use or transfer of that property. Common examples of encumbrances include mortgages, liens, easements, and restrictions. An encumbrance does not prevent the ownership of the property but can limit its use or decrease its value.

Understanding this concept is crucial in real estate transactions and property management, as it directly impacts the rights and responsibilities of property owners. For example, if a property has a mortgage (a type of encumbrance), the owner cannot freely sell the property without addressing that mortgage.

In contrast, a title refers to the legal right to own or use property, a lease is a contractual arrangement granting temporary use of the property, and a deed is a legal document that conveys ownership from one party to another. These terms describe different aspects of property ownership and use but do not specifically denote the claims or liabilities attached to real property, as an encumbrance does.