Squatters Rights

“Squatter’s rights,” also known as adverse possession, is a legal principle that allows an individual to claim ownership of land or property if they have openly, continuously, and exclusively possessed and used the property without the owner’s permission for a certain period of time. The idea behind squatter’s rights is to prevent property from remaining unused and neglected by allowing someone who has been using the land for an extended period to gain legal ownership.

In Virginia, laws regarding adverse possession are outlined in the Virginia Code, particularly in Title 8.01 (Civil Remedies and Procedure). Virginia’s adverse possession statute requires a person claiming adverse possession to demonstrate several elements, including open and notorious possession, continuous possession for a specified period of time (typically 15 years), exclusive use, and hostility to the true owner’s interests.

It’s important to note that adverse possession in Virginia and elsewhere is a complex legal concept with specific requirements and limitations. Property owners should be vigilant in monitoring their properties to prevent adverse possession claims, while individuals seeking to establish adverse possession should consult with legal professionals to understand their rights and obligations under Virginia law.