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Pennsylvania's adverse possession statute requires occupation for:

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Question & Answer

Review the question and all answer choices

A

10 years

10 years is incorrect because it represents the adverse possession period in some states like California, but Pennsylvania requires a significantly longer period of 21 years. This option tests if students confuse Pennsylvania requirements with those of other states.

B

15 years

15 years is incorrect as it doesn't match Pennsylvania's specific 21-year requirement. While some states do use 15 years, Pennsylvania's statute clearly establishes a longer period, making this a common distractor for students familiar with other state laws.

C

21 years

Correct Answer
D

30 years

30 years is incorrect because it represents the adverse possession period for properties owned by the federal government or in states like Delaware, but Pennsylvania's requirement is only 21 years. This option may trap students who overgeneralize from federal requirements.

Why is this correct?

Pennsylvania requires 21 years of continuous, open, notorious, hostile, and exclusive possession to claim title through adverse possession. This specific timeframe is codified in Pennsylvania law and distinguishes it from states with shorter or longer adverse possession periods.

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