Squatters Rights: What You Need to Know
Squatters rights have a long and complex history that dates back centuries. The concept of squatter's rights, also known as adverse possession, has evolved over time to address issues related to property ownership and land use. Understanding the legal framework behind squatters rights is crucial for both property owners and potential squatters. Adverse possession, the legal concept behind squatter's rights, allows an individual to claim ownership of a property if they have openly and continuously occupied it for a specified period of time. This rule aims to prevent properties from sitting unused or abandoned while someone else could be making beneficial use of them. Common myths surrounding squatter's rights often revolve around misconceptions about how easy it is for someone to take over a property. In reality, adverse possession laws vary by jurisdiction and typically require a lengthy period of occupation, usually ranging from 5 to 20 years, along with meeting specifi...