Do you have to file to claim adverse possession in nc?

Yes, in North Carolina, to claim adverse possession, you must file a lawsuit in court to obtain legal recognition of your claim. Adverse possession requires meeting specific criteria, including continuous and exclusive possession of the property for at least 20 years. Simply occupying the land is not enough; you must demonstrate that your use was open, notorious, and hostile to the interests of the true owner. Once the court rules in your favor, you can then obtain title to the property.