I hold the deeds to a piece of land in Derbyshire. I have been living in Essex for the last 12 years, and the neighbour who lives next door to the land is seeking possession due to the fact that I have only visited the land a couple of times since I left. The neighbour states that he has been 'caring' for the land and garage thereon for the 12 years. Do I have any say in this or is it a lost cause? I own the right of way onto this land. Does that have any effect? If you could help it would be very much appreciated, or please advise me of a solicitor who could help me. Thank you very much.

-- Anthony T Hawke (anthonyhawke@yahoo.com), August 02, 2004

Answers

This sounds like bullshit to me. He has not been occupying the land - this is not the same scenario as that chap who got a substantial house because he moved into it and stayed there for over 12 years - your neighbour is only "caring" for the land and is doing that voluntarily.

I don't think he has a claim.

-- David J Button (davidjohnbutton@supanet.com), August 02, 2004.