What does "unity of possession" signify in Tenancy in Common?

"Unity of possession" in Tenancy in Common indicates that all co-tenants have the right to possess and use the entire property, regardless of their individual ownership shares. This means that while each tenant may own a different percentage or fraction of the property, they all have equal rights to the enjoyment and use of the whole property. This concept promotes shared usage among the tenants, allowing each tenant to access all areas of the property without limitations imposed by their ownership stake.

The other answers do not capture the essence of "unity of possession." While equal ownership among tenants refers to the equal distribution of ownership stakes, it does not specifically address the shared usage aspect. Exclusive use by one tenant contradicts the principle of shared access; in a Tenancy in Common, no single tenant can claim exclusive rights over any part of the property. Lastly, independence of ownership rights suggests that tenants operate independently, which is not compatible with the shared possession fundamental to this type of tenancy. Thus, "unity of possession" fundamentally emphasizes the shared use of the property, making that option the most accurate representation of the concept.