As a landlord, one of your biggest concerns is protecting your property from any potential damage or loss. However, in some states, squatter’s rights can make it difficult for landlords to maintain control over their properties. In this blog post, we will discuss what states have squatters rights are and how landlords can protect their property in states where these laws exist.
Squatter’s rights, also known as adverse possession laws, allow individuals who have been living on someone else’s property without permission to claim legal ownership after a certain period of time. This means that if a person has been living on your property for a specific amount of time and meets certain requirements set by the state law, they may be able to legally claim ownership of your property.
Currently, 31 states have some form of squatter’s rights laws in place. These laws vary from state to state but generally require the individual to live on the property openly and continuously for a specific number of years (usually 7-20 years) without the owner’s permission or knowledge. Some states also require that the individual pay taxes on the property during this time period.
So what can landlords do to protect their properties from potential squatters? The first step is understanding the laws in your state and being aware of any changes or updates that may occur. It is important to regularly review these laws as they can differ greatly between neighboring states.
Another crucial step is maintaining proper documentation and records for all tenants who occupy your properties. This includes having written lease agreements with clear terms and conditions outlined. In addition, conducting regular inspections and keeping track of any unauthorized occupants can help prevent potential squatting situations.
In some cases where there are vacant properties or units within multi-unit buildings, it may be beneficial for landlords to hire security services or install surveillance cameras as an added layer of protection. This can help deter potential squatters from taking up residence on your property.
If you do find yourself in a situation where someone is claiming squatter’s rights on your property, it is important to act quickly and seek legal advice. In some states, there are specific steps that landlords must take to evict squatters, such as filing a formal eviction notice or going through the court system.
Conclusion: Squatter’s rights laws can be a major concern for landlords, but with proper knowledge and precautions, it is possible to protect your property from potential squatting situations. Regularly reviewing state laws and maintaining proper documentation and records are key steps in preventing these situations from occurring. In addition, being proactive by hiring security services or installing surveillance cameras can also help deter potential squatters. If faced with a situation where someone is claiming squatter’s rights on your property, seeking legal advice and acting quickly can help resolve the issue in a timely manner.
As always, it is important for landlords to stay informed about any changes or updates to state laws regarding squatter’s rights. By staying proactive and taking necessary precautions, you can protect your investment properties and maintain control over them without worrying about potential squatting situations.
