Results for: Squatting

Squatting is a growing problem in cities across America, fueled by a lack of affordable housing and misguided policies that make it difficult to remove illegal occupants from private property. The corporate media has downplayed the severity of the issue, but the stories of homeowners who have been victimized by squatters tell a different tale.

Squatters often exploit legal loopholes to remain in homes they do not own, demanding money to move out or causing extensive damage to the property. The lack of housing supply exacerbates the problem, as rising costs make it difficult for people to find affordable places to live.

To address the squatting problem, cities and states need to focus on increasing the supply of housing by cutting regulations, lowering fees, and reducing zoning restrictions. Short-term solutions include strengthening local ordinances and state laws to protect property owners from squatters.

Recognizing squatters as trespassers and enacting laws that make it easier to remove them from private property are essential steps towards safeguarding property rights and maintaining a stable society.

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has signed a bill that makes squatting a crime in the state. The Georgia Squatter Reform Act allows property owners to seek damages from squatters and speeds up the eviction process. “This is insanity,” Kemp said. “People just think they can come in and take over somebody’s home. I mean it’s just outrageous.” The legislation comes as squatting has become a growing problem nationwide. Real estate agents and homeowners have reported cases of squatters selling appliances and even charging people for rent in occupied properties.

New York homeowners have gained more protection against squatters after a recent legal battle in Queens. Two squatters allegedly took over a $1 million home, leading to the homeowner being handcuffed and removed from the property after she tried to change the locks. This incident sparked outrage and prompted lawmakers to enact a new law that excludes squatters from tenant protections. The law makes it easier for police to intervene in squatting cases, providing relief to homeowners who have faced months or years of legal battles.

A homeowner in New York named Adele Andaloro found herself removed from her property and arrested after changing the locks when she discovered people she did not know occupying her home. She says she does not know the man, identified as Brian Rodriguez, or the other people in the house and did not lease the property to them. Rodriguez claimed he had legal rights to the unit and called the police. Upon arrival, the police officers removed Andaloro from the property. After an investigation, Rodriguez was charged with burglary and other allegations for illegally occupying a home and renting it to others. No charges were filed against Andaloro. The incident highlights the difficulties faced by law enforcement and homeowners in ‘squatter’ cases in New York, where regulations exist allowing someone who has stayed in a property for more than 30 days to claim a right to the property.