Squatters Rights New Jersey: Everything You Need to Know in 2023

What are Squatters Rights?

Squatters rights, also known as adverse possession, is a legal doctrine that allows a person to claim ownership of land that they have occupied for a continuous period without the owner's permission. In New Jersey, squatters rights are governed by the Adverse Possession Statute, N.J.S.A. 2A:14-30.

How to Claim Squatters Rights in New Jersey

To claim squatters rights in New Jersey, you must meet the following requirements:

• Actual possession: You must physically occupy the land for 20 years.
• Open and notorious possession: Your possession must be visible to the public and the owner.
• Exclusive possession: You must be the only person using the land.
• Hostile possession: You must possess the land without the owner's permission.
• Continuous possession: Your possession must be uninterrupted for 20 years.

Defenses to Squatters Rights

The owner of the land can defend against a claim of squatters rights by proving that:

• They gave you permission to use the land.
• You abandoned the land.
• You did not occupy the land continuously for 20 years.
• They paid the property taxes on the land.

Consequences of Squatters Rights

If you successfully claim squatters rights, you will become the legal owner of the land. However, you may be required to pay the owner for any improvements that they made to the land while you were in possession.

Tips for Claiming Squatters Rights

If you are considering claiming squatters rights, there are a few things you can do to improve your chances of success:

• Document your possession: Keep a journal or take photos to document your use of the land.
• Pay the property taxes: Paying the property taxes will help to show that you are claiming the land as your own.
• Get a lawyer: A lawyer can help you to navigate the legal process and ensure that your claim is valid.

FAQs About Squatters Rights in New Jersey

Q: How long does it take to claim squatters rights in New Jersey?
A: 20 years.

Q: What is the difference between adverse possession and squatters rights?
A: Adverse possession is the legal term for squatters rights.

Q: Can I claim squatters rights if I am living in someone's house without their permission?
A: No. You can only claim squatters rights to land, not to buildings.

Q: What happens if the owner of the land finds out that I am living there?
A: The owner can evict you from the land or file a lawsuit to have you removed.