In most states, the statutory period necessary to achieve adverse possession is ten years, meaning the squatter has to use the disputed property as his own and often must pay taxes on the property before the original owner loses title.

What is the difference between trespassing and squatting?

The difference between the two is that a trespasser used force to enter the property, such as breaking a window or door. Squatters gain access to the home in another fashion that does not involve the act of trespassing. A squatter can access the property through an unlocked entrance or an already broken window.

Is squatting considered trespassing?

Squatting is not necessarily trespassing. While trespassing is a criminal offense, squatting is usually civil in nature. Still, squatting can be treated as criminal behavior if the property owner or landlord has established that the individual in question is unwelcome.