Introduction
On June 1, a new law aimed at combating illegal squatting goes into effect in Alabama. The legislation, signed by Governor Kay Ivey, allows homeowners to expedite the removal process of illegal squatters from their properties.
Quick Removal Process
Under the new law, homeowners can request assistance from local law enforcement within 24 hours by submitting an affidavit to remove squatters. This measure provides a significant improvement over the previous process, which could take up to 21 days.
Legislative Background
House Bill 182, which facilitates this change, passed unanimously in both the Alabama House and Senate earlier this year. The bill’s swift approval underscores the urgency and widespread support for addressing illegal squatting.
Regional Context
Holly Ray, a Huntsville-based attorney specializing in landlord-tenant law, notes that several states in the Southeast have recently enacted similar laws. These measures respond to the increasing problem of individuals occupying abandoned properties and refusing to leave.
Common Issues Addressed
One of the most prevalent issues addressed by the new law is rental scams. Scammers produce fraudulent documents that appear to grant them ownership of properties. Homeowners often discover the scam when they find unauthorized occupants in their homes.
Exemptions and Legal Process
The law includes an exemption for situations where the squatter and the homeowner are related. In cases where multiple relatives claim ownership of a property, particularly following the death of a loved one, the matter will be decided by the courts rather than through immediate law enforcement action.
Penalties for Fraud
The new law also introduces penalties for falsifying real estate documents. Holly Ray highlights that falsified documents are a common tactic used by scammers to claim ownership of properties.
Conclusion
Effective June 1, Alabama homeowners will benefit from a faster and more efficient process to remove illegal squatters, thanks to the new law signed by Governor Kay Ivey. The legislation aims to curb the rising issue of illegal squatting and provide homeowners with quicker recourse through local law enforcement.
