India, April 14 -- Can a tenant claim ownership of a rented property even after staying there for more than three years? The short answer is no.

Last year, the Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling that reinforced landlords' rights. It held that a tenant who enters a property under a valid rent agreement cannot later dispute the landlord's ownership or claim title through adverse possession.

Legal experts say that in long-term tenancies, it is advisable to have a registered rental agreement to ensure clarity and legal enforceability. Even a single renewal of the agreement within the 12-year period is sufficient to break the continuity required for an adverse possession claim.Also Read: 'Pay Rs.25,000 deposit for electronic appliances':...