N.C. Gen. Stat. § 156-115

Where the land assessed by drainage commissioners under the provisions of this Article has been purchased since the making of the assessment by a purchaser for value without notice under a deed of general warranty, and said purchaser pays to the sheriff the amount of said drainage assessment, which is a lien on the land purchased, then such purchaser who pays the said drainage assessment shall have a right of action against the warrantor of his title under the covenant of general warranty contained in his deed for the recovery of the amount paid.