Adverse Possession

Adverse possession is the term given to the acquisition of land by unauthorised use of it for a significant period of time (not less than 10 years as a minimum). This means that someone can acquire title to or an interest in land, without paying for it.

Of course, in order to be successful in a claim for adverse possession, all prevailing conditions must be correct and the paper title owner of the land will generally be given an opportunity to object. It is often not so straightforward. Given that the jeopardy is the loss of land by one individual, and the gain of it by the other, such issues can often be often bitterly fought and gains, if they are achieved, are often hard-won.

How can we help you?

If you have a suspicion that someone is on your land and adversely possessing it or, alternatively, if you consider that you are in possession of land which you do not own, it is recommended that you seek advice about what options are available to you.

Our team of expert property litigation solicitors have combined experience spanning decades in this area and are on hand and available to help navigate you through your rights, discuss your options and, should it prove necessary, take all appropriate action, including preparing an application or objection and / or bringing proceedings.  Depending upon if you are the party bringing or defending those proceedings such remedies might include the granting title to the party seeking it or, alternatively, dismissing the claim and providing the owner with compensation for the trespass and / or an injunction which prohibits further trespass on the land.

If you require assistance in respect of land which has been adversely possessed, it is better to take advice as soon as possible. Please contact our team on 0345 646 0406 or fill in our online enquiry form and a member of our team will be in touch.