What is the term for covenants or restrictions that affect ownership and use of property?

The term for covenants or restrictions that affect ownership and use of property is "encumbrances." Encumbrances refer to any claim, lien, charge, or liability attached to and binding real property. This can include things like covenants, which are agreements that dictate certain behaviors or uses of the property, as well as restrictions placed on the property's sale or development.

Easements, while related, are specific rights to use someone else's property for a particular purpose and do not encompass the broader range of restrictions or covenants. Liens are financial claims against the property, often due to debts, and do not directly address use or ownership restrictions. Deeds are legal documents that convey ownership of property but do not inherently include the concept of restrictions attached to that ownership.

Thus, encumbrances comprehensively represent the concept of covenants and restrictions within the context of real property.