Squatter's Rights

Definition

The legal principle that occupation of abandoned property for a certain period can result in ownership—basically, finders keepers, but for entire houses.

Example Usage

After seven years, he claimed squatter's rights to the abandoned house he'd been maintaining.

Origin

Common law principle with roots in medieval property concepts

Fun Fact

Squatter's rights vary dramatically by state and country; some places recognize adverse possession after just 5 years, others require 21 years

Source: Property law terminology

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