New York property owners have faced concerns over squatters, but the 2024 state budget aims to address this issue. A portion of the budget agreement clarifies tenant-protection law, specifically excluding squatters from these protections. Squatters are defined as individuals residing in a property without the owner’s permission.
Squatters’ rights have been a concern for property owners in New York, particularly highlighted by recent media reports of individuals illegally taking possession of homes. On Staten Island, four individuals were arrested for allegedly taking over a residence, leading to community complaints and action from the NYPD and Buildings Department.
Bipartisan support emerged for changing squatters’ rights, with State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton and Assemblyman Michael Tannousis advocating for new rules. They emphasized the distress faced by homeowners when squatters unlawfully occupy their properties, highlighting the need for homeowners to have more rights than those illegally occupying their spaces.
Scarcella-Spanton introduced legislation earlier this year that defined squatters similarly to the language included in the state budget. Previously, there was limited legal distinction between tenants and squatters.
Tannousis expressed concerns about the rights given to squatters, stating that after 30 days in New York City, squatters have more rights than the landlord. He advocates for holding individuals accountable for breaking the law and protecting law-abiding citizens.
