Antiquated Laws and the Rise of Squatters
Across America, outdated laws have often protected squatters, creating significant challenges for property owners. These laws can make it difficult and time-consuming to remove individuals who are illegally occupying homes.
Flash Shelton: The Squatter Hunter
Flash Shelton, also known as the Squatter Hunter, developed a unique method to counteract this issue when he encountered a squatter in his mother’s home in Northern California five years ago. By becoming a legal tenant himself, Shelton uses his lease to change the locks and effectively turn the tables on squatters. This approach has proven effective in situations where traditional legal avenues have failed.
Changing the Game: Legal Loopholes and Civil Court
Shelton’s method relies on the fact that as a legal tenant, he cannot be easily evicted, creating a strategic advantage in what he describes as a “chess match.” In many cases, even when squatters call the police, the matter is referred to civil court, which can take months to resolve without any guarantees for property owners.
Legislative Efforts to Combat Squatting
Some states have begun to introduce tougher measures against squatting. In California, a new law championed by State Senator Bob Archuleta allows property owners to file a no trespass notice with local police, enabling officers to respond more effectively. Florida has also enacted a law allowing immediate eviction of squatters without a lease, and several other states are considering similar legislation.
Professional Squatter Removal Services
Companies like Lando Thomas and Kimry Kic offer professional squatter removal services for a fee starting at $2500. These services involve direct confrontation with squatters, like a recent case involving a 26-year-old named SJ, his pregnant girlfriend, and their five dogs. Despite the challenges, the team managed to negotiate SJ’s departure by offering to pay for a motel room and storage, which was ultimately the quickest and cheapest solution for the property owner.
The Ongoing Challenge
While new laws and innovative methods are providing some relief, the issue of squatting remains a complex problem. Property owners continue to face significant hurdles in reclaiming their homes from individuals who exploit legal loopholes to live rent-free.