Adverse Possession in New Hampshire
State-specific overview · Property & Real Estate
New Hampshire requires 20 years of open, continuous occupation to establish adverse possession without any tax payment requirement.
How New Hampshire treats Adverse Possession
An adverse possessor in New Hampshire must occupy the land openly, continuously, and exclusively for 20 years, which is longer than most states. The occupation must be hostile and without the owner's permission, and the possessor must intend to claim ownership. New Hampshire does not require payment of property taxes as part of the adverse possession claim, focusing instead on the length and nature of the occupation itself.
The general definition of Adverse Possession
Gaining legal ownership of land by occupying it openly and continuously for a set period.
If someone uses another person's land openly, without permission, and continuously for many years (typically 7–21 years depending on the state), they may eventually become the legal owner. The original owner must not have stopped them during that time. This doctrine rewards people who improve and maintain land while punishing owners who abandon or ignore their property.
Read the full Adverse Possession entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in New Hampshire.