In recent weeks, headlines have covered numerous incidents where "squatters" are invading the homes of Americans in multiple states, spurring legislative actions in at least four states.
Last month, a New York City homeowner was arrested after she changed the locks on a $1 million home she inherited from her parents in an attempt to remove a group of squatters. Earlier this week, another group of squatters reportedly sued the rightful owners of a $930,000 investment home they took over.
But despite making headlines and spurring a national conversation about "squatting," experts say the practice remains "extremely rare," so much so that there are no reliable data available on the actual number of squatters around the country, per The Washington Post.
To keep homeowners protected, here's everything to know about squatting.
What Is a Squatter?
The word "squatter" refers to an individual who goes into a property despite not having any legal right to it. Squatting is a form of trespassing. However, squatters aim to claim ownership of the property or permanent residency.
What Is Squatters Rights?
Squatters Rights, also called Adverse Possession, refers to the rights a squatter could gain if they occupy a property for a certain period without the true owner or landlord taking legal action against them.
Each state has its own laws on squatters rights and the length of time an individual would need to reside on the property to claim it. In Florida, a squatter must have lived in the property for at least seven years for an adverse possession claim to be valid. In New York, however, a squatter can obtain tenant rights if they have been living in a home for 30 days.
How Do You Remove Squatters From Your Property?
In some states, police officers may arrest squatters for trespassing if they are unable to provide any proof showing they are legally allowed to occupy a property. However, they cannot remove squatters directly based on the property owner's request. Homeowners or property owners are required to go through a formal eviction process in court. The eviction process can take between three to six weeks and may cost homeowners $600 to $800 on average.
Since squatting made national headlines, several states such as Florida and New York have introduced new bills to speed up the process of removing squatters from properties.
In Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into law a bill that gives local sheriffs the power to quickly remove people illegally living on a property. The bill could also lead to second-degree felony charges. That bill takes effect July 1.
In New York, state assemblyman Jake Blumencraz filed a bill that would prevent squatters from receiving tenant rights and extend the time they need to stay on a property from 30 to 45 days before they can claim rights.
