Occupancy Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Occupancy, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Occupancy?

n.1)Using premises as a tenant or an owner for residential or other purposes. 2) Trying to gain legal ownership of real property or thing that is not owned by anyone else by occupying and having control on it.

History and Meaning of Occupancy

Occupancy is a legal term that refers to the use of premises by a tenant or owner for residential or other purposes. It can be a legal possession of property that is not owned by anyone else but is controlled by the occupant. The notion of "occupancy" has a long history dating back to the earliest forms of human settlement.

In a legal context, occupancy is often used in reference to tenancy and lease agreements. When an individual rents an apartment or other type of property, they are granted occupancy rights over that space for a specific period of time. In the case of ownership, occupancy is the right to use a specified space in a property lawfully.

Examples of Occupancy

  1. The landlord gave the tenant occupancy of the apartment.
  2. The couple obtained occupancy of the house through their mortgage loan.
  3. The trespasser claimed ownership of the abandoned property through adverse occupancy.

Legal Terms Similar to Occupancy

  1. Possession: The actual physical control of a property.
  2. Tenancy: The right to occupy a property granted by a lease or rental agreement.
  3. Ownership: The legal right to control, use, and dispose of a property.