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Squatters' Rights in England: What the Law Says

Squatting in homes is a crime; adverse possession is narrow.

Squatters' Rights in England: What the Law Says Residential Property Services in London

Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond

Property law · Squatting

Squatters' rights

Residentialsquatting a crime
Adversepossession
10 yearsregistered land
Ownerscan object
In short: Since 2012, squatting in a residential building in England and Wales is a criminal offence. "Squatters' rights" usually refers to adverse possession, where someone who has occupied land as if they owned it for a long period can apply to be registered as owner. For registered land, they can apply after 10 years, but the registered owner is notified and can usually object and remove them. For unregistered land, the period is 12 years. Owners of empty property should secure it, inspect regularly and register their land.

Frequently asked questions

Can squatters take a house?

Squatting in a home is a crime.

How long for adverse possession?

10 years for registered land, with owner objections allowed.

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