Real Property - How long must someone claim property by adverse possession?

Question

I have looked everywhere for an answer to this question, specific to the State of Michigan.  How long must someone claim property by adverse possession before the courts will uphold such possession?  I am looking for an answer in how many years.

Answer

An adverse possession claim arises because of a statute of limitations which requires a title holder to react to a party claiming his property within 15 years of the beginning of the claim of the adverse possessor.  The elements of adverse are set out in case law.

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Last Updated:  7-5-02

Send your comments, questions and suggestions to Phil Harter at 161 E Michigan Avenue, Battle Creek, Michigan 49014 or e mail to pharter@calhouncountymi.gov