How to prevent your unoccupied property from becoming a squat
How to prevent your unoccupied property from becoming a squat
Squatters are every landlord's worst nightmare and there are an estimated 30,000 of them in the UK.
This figure has been on the rise since the 1960s and with unemployment rising and the mortgage market stalling, it's a good bet that this number will continue to increase.
Squatting in itself is not a criminal offence. Provided that entry is not forced, it's not regarded under UK law as a criminal matter. You'll need to go to a civil court to reclaim your property and that can sometimes be a drawn out procedure.
"Today's squatters are highly organised and efficient. Many have full-time work and drug problems are rare." These are the words of a spokesperson for the Advisory Service for Squatters, a London based non profit group that provides advice and support for Squatters.
Squatters have rights and they will be well-informed. Unless you can persuade them to leave voluntarily, they can't be legally evicted from a property without a court possession order. That takes time so it pays to consider the potential problem of squatters early and to prevent your unoccupied property becoming a squat.
According to the empty homes agency, there are nearly one million homes currently left empty in the UK. If yours is going to be left empty for any length of time, it's essential that you take out proper unoccupied property insurance and if you want to avoid the problem of squatters you'd be wise to follow our 5 point plan.
Lock up. Keep the property well protected with decent door and window locks. If the house is going to be empty for a long period you might want to consider boarding it up. While this makes it clear that the house is empty, it also means that any potential squatters have to visibly force entry to get inside. This means they break the law and puts you in a stronger position.
Make it look occupied. This means timer switches, but also basic furniture, curtains and carpets, all things that indicate that someone is living at the property. Don't overlook the obvious things that would indicate an empty home, make sure that any external damage to windows, drainpipes, gates etc is mended promptly and get someone to cut the lawn and tend the garden regularly.
Let people know and ask them to keep an eye out for you. Neighbours, the police, the local neighbourhood watch will all take an interest if you make them aware that the house is going to be unoccupied.
Make regular visits. Or if that's not possible, have someone do this on your behalf, get them to check for signs of neglect and damage and check that the property is secure.
Rent it out. Having someone living there makes the problem go away. If it's convenient, try to find a tenant. Squatters are a lot less likely to take over a place that's occupied.
Once squatters are in, it can be a lengthy and expensive process to have them removed so it's wise to take every precaution you can. Make sure you get the right unoccupied property insurance and keep squatters at bay.
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