An opulent seven-story residence situated near London's Hyde Park, spanning an interior area of 5,760 square meters, has recently drawn renewed public scrutiny. The property, which last traded for £210 million (approximately 1.884 billion yuan), is registered under a company controlled by Ding Yumei, the former spouse of Evergrande's (HKG: 3333) original controlling shareholder, Xu Jiayin. Following the eruption of the property giant's debt crisis in 2022, the two were reported to have divorced.
Reports indicate that a 57-year-old homeless individual has been living on the porch of this mansion for approximately three years.
Numerous online commentators have seized upon this narrative, describing the situation as the homeless man "occupying" Xu Jiayin's luxury home. They have referenced the UK's "adverse possession" laws, suggesting that long-term occupation of a vacant property could allow the individual to apply for legal ownership rights.
However, it is understood that the individual has not entered or taken possession of the interior of the mansion. Instead, he has established a temporary dwelling on the property's external porch and steps, constructed from items such as umbrellas, tents, and plants. The online interpretations regarding "adverse possession" are likely largely misunderstood. Under relevant UK regulations, for registered land, a squatter typically must prove continuous occupation for at least 10 years to become eligible to apply for registration as the owner. Following such an application, the registered owner and other interested parties would be notified and have the right to object.
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