Which characteristic is indicative of adverse possession?

A characteristic indicative of adverse possession is consistent physical occupation. This refers to the continuous and uninterrupted use of a property by someone who does not hold legal title to it. For a claim of adverse possession to be valid, the person occupying the land must do so in a manner that is visible and obvious to anyone, especially the legal owner. This occupation not only needs to be actual and physical but also exclusive, meaning the possessor alone has control over the property without sharing that possession with the true owner or the public.

Consistent physical occupation reinforces the idea that the possessor treats the land as their own, establishing a claim to ownership through their long-term and persistent use. In the context of Texas law, this may also include maintaining the property and making improvements, which further solidifies their claim against the rightful owner.

Other characteristics, while potentially related to property claims, do not encapsulate the essence of adverse possession as effectively. Timely filing of a claim emphasizes procedural aspects that may not necessarily apply to how the possessor uses the land. Legal ownership negotiation implies formal proceedings that are contrary to the nature of adverse possession, where the possessor often seeks to gain ownership without the consent of the current titleholder. Shared usage with neighbors suggests a communal