Some people only acquire real property that they intend to use as their primary residence. Others may purchase or inherit property that remains vacant indefinitely. In scenarios where owners do not occupy the land or homes they own, they are at risk of squatters trying to assume possession of property.
Squatters can damage real property by misusing improvements like cabins or attempting to add their own improvements. They could also eventually try to lay claim to property where they stay without permission. The law in Texas actually provides a way for those who illegally possess property to become the legal owner by taking the matter to civil court.
Adverse possession can lead to major losses
Texas law acknowledges adverse possession or squatters’ rights. In scenarios where people occupy property without the permission of the actual owner, they can eventually go to court to request legal ownership of the property.
In cases where squatters have deeds affirming their interest in the property and make tax payments, the actual owner could lose the property in as little as three years. In other cases, it might be a decade or longer before those occupying the property without permission could claim to have an ownership interest. The simplest way of avoiding adverse possession claims is to respond immediately when squatters attempt to take possession of an unoccupied property.
Reviewing the situation carefully can help property owners protect their resources during a real estate dispute involving adverse possession claims. Without prompt action, outside parties could eventually lay claim to real estate that doesn’t technically belong to them.
