If you use or occupy someone else's land, building or home continuously or for long enough without the actual owner telling you that you are on their land or requiring you to leave, you may be able to obtain ownership of the land or at least some rights to use the property.
The time periods run from twenty to sixty years. Depending on the type of land (undeveloped raw, unimproved land, land being farmed, land with a home or other building or structure), the length of time will vary for the actual owner to take action.
The law is complex and depends (as many cases do) on the facts. If the owner tells you to leave or sues to have you removed, you may not have any rights in the real estate. These cases require a detailed history of the use of the property going back many years.
Contact our office to learn more about adverse possession and your rights.