What is the principle behind adverse possession?

The principle behind adverse possession is that an individual may acquire ownership of real property by occupying it continuously and openly for a certain statutory period, typically without the consent of the true owner. This legal doctrine is rooted in public policy, which encourages the productive use of land and seeks to resolve disputes over land ownership by recognizing those who have taken possession and treated the property as their own.

To satisfy the requirements for adverse possession, the occupation of the property must be actual, open, notorious, exclusive, and hostile to the interests of the true owner. By living on the property continuously, the individual demonstrates a claim to ownership that is visible and evident, eliminating ambiguity about their use of the land. This principle serves to better utilize land resources and protect the rights of those who would invest in and improve the land, even if it means that someone might lose title to their property if they do not assert their rights.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the legal concept of adverse possession. The notion that one must pay rent or prove ownership through a contract overlooks the unique characteristics of adverse possession, which does not require consent or payment from the true owner. Similarly, the idea that title cannot be acquired without the owner's consent contradicts the very premise of adverse possession, where