Special Transfer Processes

Adverse Possession

Adverse possession is a way to acquire title to someone else's land by using it openly and continuously. California requirements (5 years): (1) ACTUAL possession (using the property). (2) OPEN AND NOTORIOUS (visible and obvious). (3) HOSTILE (without owner's permission). (4) CONTINUOUS for 5 years. (5) CLAIM OF RIGHT or COLOR OF TITLE. (6) Payment of PROPERTY TAXES for 5 years (California-specific requirement). Rare but does happen in boundary disputes.

CCP §325