What are squatters and what can you do about them?

What is a squatter?

A squatter is someone who enters a property without permission and starts to live there.

Squatting is a criminal offence and can lead to punishments such as a fine, or a prison sentence.

What do I do if I find a squatter in my property?

If you discover squatters in yours, or your landlords’ property, report it to the police immediately and act swiftly. It is important to make the report, however, due to limited resources the police may not always intervene.

If the police cannot assist, you will need to start court proceedings to apply for a possession order.

Court proceedings

When dealing with squatters, you must follow specific legal procedures to evict them. A possession claim against trespassers can only be made against individuals who entered and remained in the property without the owner’s or landlord’s consent. It’s important to verify that the occupier is not a former tenant, sub-tenant, or licensee. If a tenant remains in the property past the expiration of their lease, they are not considered squatters. In such cases, possession must be obtained through the court based on the expired notice.

To effectively manage this process, having a rent and legal protection policy in place can provide significant reassurance. Policies would usually cover legal costs and offer support in dealing with squatters, ensuring you and your landlord are not left to handle the situation alone.

How to prevent squatters?

Preventing squatters is always preferable to dealing with them after they’ve moved in. Here are some strategies to help keep the property secure:

1. Avoid long void periods

Ensure the property is not left vacant for extended periods. If you anticipate a vacancy, consider arranging security measures to deter potential squatters.

• Tenant screening

Properly reference and know the tenants before letting your property. This helps to ensure you are renting to reliable individuals who are less likely to cause problems.

• Good relations with neighbours

If you can, try and maintain good relationships with the neighbours. They can keep an eye on the property and alert you to any suspicious activity.

• Regular inspections

Carry out regular inspections of the property. This helps to identify and address any potential issues before they escalate.

• Rent and Legal Protection

Having a rent and legal protection policy can be invaluable. Such policies often provide cover for legal expenses and offer professional support in evicting squatters, giving landlords added peace of mind.

With these measures in place, you can significantly reduce the risk of encountering squatters and handle any issues more effectively if they do arise.

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