Understanding the Legal Rights of Property Owners in the Philippines

Property Owners’ Rights According to the Civil Code of the Philippines

Owning a property comes with a number of legal responsibilities, including paying taxes. Apart from that, it’s important to understand your legal rights as a property owner to maximize the potential of your real estate investment. If you’re still not aware of these rights of owning a property here in the Philippines, read this guide to learn about ownership legalities as well as its legal limitations.

​What Are the Rights of Property Owners in PH?

If you own a property and is not aware of your rights, it’s about time you learn about it. Under the Civil Code of the Philippines, every property owner has the right to use and possess it, enjoy and sell it, regain ownership from illegal settlers, gather all benefits from it, and restrict access to others. Once you understand how all these core rights function, you can live happily in your property with your loved ones.
Here are the main ownership rights that you can practice as the owner of a Philippine property:

• You have the right to use the property for your benefit and collect all products it may produce.
      
  
• You have the authority to restrict access, fence it off, and forbid unauthorized people from entering your private property.
      
  
• You have the sole legal right to recover your property from any individual living in it illegally.
      
  
• You have the freedom to rent, donate, or sell the property, as well as transfer the ownership to any legal heirs.
      
  
• You have the control to any improvements or natural additions to the property to enhance living conditions.
  

Limitations to Ownership Rights

While there are substantial rights for property owners to enjoy and benefit from, there are also restrictions that they should respect and follow. For instance, the State still regulates the use of any properties to promote public safety, morals, health, and overall well-being without giving compensations.
In terms of zoning and easements, there are local zoning ordinances, legal easements, and building codes that must be followed regarding the use of property. Moreover, the government may also acquire a private property to carry out public projects as long as the owner is properly compensated. More importantly, owners must settle their annual taxes to avoid penalties and getting their properties auctioned by the government.

Final Thoughts

Property ownership grants an individual the authority to use, control, or transfer the property to legal heirs or buyer. With every right also comes the limitations that must be followed to fully enjoy the benefits of being an owner. If you’re looking for the next property to own, you can log onto REALS.PH for our exclusive listings of properties for sale in the Philippines, including some condominiums for sale in Baguio City. We can’t wait to assist you with your next investment and provide you with all the information you need to make the best choice.