Definition
A legal doctrine under which someone occupying land openly, continuously, and without permission for a statutory period may acquire title.
Example
A neighbor's fence built four feet over the line and maintained for twenty-two years became the basis of an adverse possession claim.
Related terms
- Abstract of Title
- Affidavit of Title
- Certificate of Occupancy
- Chain of Title
- Cloud on Title
- Consideration
Frequently asked questions
What does Adverse Possession mean in real estate?
A legal doctrine under which someone occupying land openly, continuously, and without permission for a statutory period may acquire title.
How is Adverse Possession used in practice?
A neighbor's fence built four feet over the line and maintained for twenty-two years became the basis of an adverse possession claim.
This definition is provided for educational purposes. Legal and tax terminology can carry jurisdiction-specific meaning — confirm with a licensed professional before relying on it in a transaction.