Abandonment

In real estate, abandonment refers to the relinquishment of ownership or interest in a property by its owner, often through a prolonged period of neglect or non-use. In Virginia, abandonment of real property is primarily governed by common law principles, which consider factors such as the owner’s intent to abandon the property, the duration of non-use, and the absence of any actions indicating an intention to retain ownership. Additionally, Virginia’s adverse possession laws (Virginia Code Title 55, Chapter 3) may come into play if someone else takes possession of the abandoned property openly, notoriously, and continuously for a statutory period (typically 15 years in Virginia), resulting in a potential transfer of ownership to the adverse possessor. However, it’s essential to consult with a qualified legal professional for specific guidance on abandonment issues in Virginia real estate law.