ICC Permit Technician Practice Exam

Which of the following actions would be considered an example of adverse possession?

1. Purchasing property from a seller

2. Living on a property without paying rent

3. Breaking and entering to access property

4. Restricting access to neighboring property

The correct answer is: Living on a property without paying rent

Adverse possession is a legal doctrine that allows a person to claim ownership of land under certain conditions, typically involving continuous and open possession of the property for a specific period, without the consent of the original owner. Living on a property without paying rent exemplifies adverse possession because it involves occupying the land in an open and notorious manner, which demonstrates the possessor's intent to claim it as their own. This occupation must be continuous, exclusive, and without permission from the rightful owner. Over time, if the occupation meets the legal criteria set out by jurisdiction, the person may be able to obtain legal title to the property. The other actions presented do not fulfill the criteria for adverse possession. Purchasing property from a seller represents a legitimate transfer of ownership rather than a claim through possession. Breaking and entering is a criminal act and does not establish a claim to the property based on occupancy. Restricting access to neighboring property might involve issues of property rights or easements but does not demonstrate possession of the property itself. Thus, living on property without paying rent is the only scenario that clearly aligns with the principles of adverse possession.