Don’t Be a Victim: How to Prevent Squatting

Imagine arriving at your home, ready to unlock the door, only to find that your key no longer works. Worse yet, someone unknown is living inside. While this scenario might seem far-fetched, it’s a real concern, as evidenced by a recent incident in Queens, New York. In this article, we’ll discuss practical steps you can take to protect yourself and your property from squatters.

Squatting Is on the Rise

During the COVID-19 pandemic, squatting saw a sharp rise as many states relaxed housing regulations, allowing struggling renters to stay in their homes despite financial difficulties. Simultaneously, the housing market experienced unprecedented growth, marked by surging rents, record-high home prices, and a significant inflationary spike, rendering housing unaffordable for many. It seems that COVID-era policies may have caused many to believe “housing should be free.” Now that Covid is over, people who became accustomed to not paying rent are looking for ways to continue living for free.

Real estate expert Bruce Ailion attributes the surge in squatting to economic strain, despite seemingly positive economic indicators such as low unemployment rates and widespread job opportunities. Ailion explains that individuals with limited education, skills, and health challenges often find themselves unable to afford housing. The eviction bans enacted during the COVID-19 era provided temporary relief to some of these individuals, fostering a habit of non-payment. Once squatters gain entry into a property, their eviction becomes a complex and arduous process due to robust tenants’ rights laws and, in certain cases, squatters’ rights. For example, in New York, squatters cannot be swiftly evicted even after residing in a property for just 30 days, leaving property owners with limited options and often entangled in costly legal battles to regain possession of their property.

Practical Strategies to Safeguard Against Squatters

Engage with Your Neighbor

The simplest and most cost-effective way to safeguard your property is by communicating with your neighbors. Inform them of any periods when the property will be vacant and encourage them to report any suspicious activity. Providing them with a contact number ensures they can reach out if needed.

Enhance Security Measures

Secure the Property: Keep the property secure by installing strong locks on doors and windows, fencing around the property, and using security cameras or alarms. Regularly inspect the property for any signs of forced entry or attempted occupation. Address any maintenance issues promptly to prevent the appearance of neglect, which could attract squatters.

Some further security measures you could consider taking:

1) Place a doorbell camera, and other livestream cameras, on the property. This will allow you to monitor people attempting to enter the property and act quickly if squatters appear.

2) Put a “beware of dog” sign up. It is, after all, good advice to exercise caution around dogs you don’t know—even if you don’t happen to have one.

3) Put up “neighborhood watch” signs to deter any criminal activity, including squatting—even if it doesn’t seem as if the government protects squatters nowadays.

4) Consider keeping up an alarm system. And yes, this does contradict a later part of the article, but we suggest turning off electricity if you are unwilling to make use of active security, which is generally better.

Utilize Property Management

If you’re unable to personally oversee the property, consider hiring a property management company. They can handle regular inspections, as well as maintenance, and respond quickly to any unauthorized occupancy.

Display Vacancy Notices

Contrary to concerns about advertising vacancy, posting notices in windows can deter potential squatters. It alerts passersby that the property is not available for rent, potentially thwarting fraudulent lease attempts. Neighbors can also notify you if these notices are tampered with or removed.

Check for Vacant Property Registration

Some cities or municipalities require property owners to register vacant properties. This registration provides additional resources and options if squatters occupy the property. Familiarize yourself with local regulations and comply with any registration requirements.

Disconnect Utilities

Cutting off utilities like electricity, gas, and water prevents the property from being habitable, discouraging squatters. Additionally, request a password from utility suppliers to prevent unauthorized reactivation of services by squatters.

Set Up Google Alert

A proactive approach involves setting up Google alerts for your property’s address. This notifies you if the property appears in online rental or sale listings without your knowledge, potentially signaling a fraudulent lease attempt.

Consider Listing Your Property on Air BNB

Of course, many of the above strategies are incompatible with this one, but if you rent the property out to a long-term tenant or use the property as an Air BNB rental, this can help to deter squatters. Legitimate tenants help to keep out illegitimate ones.

Conclusion

While the thought of dealing with squatters can be unsettling, implementing these proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk. By engaging with neighbors, fortifying security, and staying vigilant, you can protect your property from unauthorized occupation. Stay informed about local regulations and utilize available resources to maintain the security of your investment.

Written by Franklin Carroll. April 13, 2024

Franklin Carroll is Kukun's VP of Modelling and Analytics; After finishing his studies at the University of Chicago, he worked at Fannie Mae where he helped build Collateral Underwriter, roll out the Value Verify initiative, and specialized in collateral related and credit related policy.