Results for: squatter rights

New York lawmakers have enacted a law to protect property owners from squatters after a homeowner was handcuffed for changing the locks on a squatter in her Queens home. The new law specifically excludes squatters from tenant protections, making it easier for police to intervene in squatting cases. The law was prompted by the case of Brian Rodriguez, who allegedly commandeered and subletted a home in Queens and summoned police to detain the owner after she tried to change the locks. The subsequent press coverage and public outcry led to at least four lawmakers penning legislation to protect homeowners from squatters.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced a portion of the 2024 state budget clarifies tenant-protection, specifically excluding squatters from those protections, defining them as those staying at a property without the owner’s permission. This addresses concerns and high-profile incidents of people illegally occupying homes, with bipartisan support including State Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton and Assemblyman Michael Tannousis advocating for changes. The new language aims to protect property owners and prevent unlawful occupancy of their spaces.