What is typically a requirement for acquiring property through adverse possession?

Acquiring property through adverse possession generally requires the claimant to establish that they have been maintaining and visibly using the property in question without permission from the original owner. This use must be continuous, open, and notorious, meaning it is evident to anyone, including the owner, which helps make the claim valid. The visibility of use is crucial as it signals to the original owner that someone is occupying their property, thus giving them the opportunity to assert their rights if they choose to do so.

In this context, maintenance refers to the physical upkeep of the property, which can also demonstrate an intention to treat the property as one's own. This combination of active involvement and visibility serves as the foundation for the adverse possession claim, allowing a claimant to potentially acquire legal title to the property after a specified statutory period.

The other options do not reflect the typical requirements for adverse possession. Immediate payment is not necessary, as the claim is based on possession rather than an exchange of money. Written consent from the original owner contradicts the very nature of adverse possession, which requires the possession to be without the owner's permission. While legal representation can be beneficial in navigating the complex legal process, it is not a requisite condition for successfully claiming adverse possession.