Squatters vs. Property Owners 

     If you don't want to work in the Arctic (see yesterday's blog), or work at all, maybe a squatter's life is for you. In some states the laws benefit squatters more than protect homeowners.

     Many states have "squatters" rights laws allowing them to claim ownership of property if they live in and care for it for a specified number of years. Such laws were never intended to allow a person to move into a home and take possession of it, rent-free.

     A former policeman in California said, "We would get a call that someone was trespassing, and when we responded, the squatter would say they have the right to be there. The law officer does not resolve the dispute. That is what the judicial system is for." That can be a lengthy, expensive process. 

     Squatters get free rent for 6 to 8 months, and it's illegal in California to turn off utilities and water.  

     In Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill that took effect July 1. Under this law, a property owner can request law enforcement remove a squatter immediately.

     The law also makes it a first-degree misdemeanor to make a false statement in writing or provide false documents conveying property rights. It is a second-degree felony for squatters to cause $1,000 or more in damages. 

     Georgia, West Virginia, New York and Tennessee have also passed laws this year protecting property rights. Arizona's governor vetoed a squatter eviction bill. 

          Jimmy