Squatter Hunters: Tackling the Growing Issue of Home Invasions in America

Squatting, the unlawful occupation of homes, has become a prevalent issue in the United States, leaving homeowners feeling vulnerable and frustrated. Flash Shelton, founder of Squatter Hunters in California, proposes law changes to address this problem. However, self-help evictions, where homeowners attempt to remove squatters without court intervention, can be risky and illegal in most states. Legal professionals recommend consulting a lawyer and exploring legal options to avoid potential consequences.

Squatting, the illegal occupation of homes, has become a persistent issue in the United States, causing significant distress to homeowners and eroding the sanctity of private property. Flash Shelton, founder of Squatter Hunters in California, has brought this problem to the forefront, advocating for tougher laws to deter squatting and protect homeowners' rights.

Squatter Hunters: Tackling the Growing Issue of Home Invasions in America

Each state has its own set of squatting laws, making it essential for homeowners to understand the legal landscape in their jurisdiction. Seeking advice from a lawyer specializing in landlord-tenant disputes can provide valuable guidance on the best course of action to address a squatting situation.

One option that homeowners may consider is self-help eviction, where they attempt to remove squatters without going through the courts. However, this approach is fraught with legal risks and can have severe consequences in many states.

Squatter Hunters: Tackling the Growing Issue of Home Invasions in America

In most states, self-help evictions are illegal. Daniel P. Phillips, a real estate litigation partner at Belkin, Burden and Goldman in New York, explains that such evictions are prohibited when the occupant is in lawful possession of the property.

Self-help evictions can expose landlords to legal liability and criminal prosecution if they are found to have illegally removed a squatter. In court, squatters can claim they were unlawfully locked out or denied essential services.

Squatter Hunters: Tackling the Growing Issue of Home Invasions in America

Legal professionals strongly advise against self-help evictions due to the high risks involved. Instead, they recommend pursuing legal channels, such as court action, to remove squatters safely and legally.

Squatters are often familiar with the laws and may have fake documentation to assert their occupancy rights. This can lead to lengthy and complex legal battles, where squatters remain in the property during the proceedings.

Squatter Hunters: Tackling the Growing Issue of Home Invasions in America

Homeowners should gather all available documentation, such as ownership records and video surveillance, to support their case against squatters. This evidence can be crucial in proving the unlawful nature of the occupation.

If confronted with a squatting situation, homeowners should immediately call the police and provide them with proof of ownership and any available evidence. If the police are unable to remove the squatter, seeking legal advice can help determine the appropriate next steps.

Squatter Hunters: Tackling the Growing Issue of Home Invasions in America

Homeowners can file a lawsuit to evict squatters and regain possession of their property. The legal process, while potentially lengthy, offers the most secure and legally sound path to resolving a squatting situation.