Squatters, a problem that affects properties everywhere including Camposol - Prevention Guide

With the end of the summer season more properties become vacant and opportunists are on the prowl

Squatters are an isolated but ongoing problem for all homeowners including Camposol, the Murcia Regional Government (CARM) recently published a prevention advice guide in an effort to help owners dissuade squatting incidents. Some aspects may seem simple common sense but nonetheless the recommendations are worth reviewing.

Section of regional government guide on “Squatter Prevention”:-

1. AVOID THE FEELING OF EMPTY OR ABANDONED HOUSING

An empty mailbox, blinds at half height and some plants on balconies or terraces will give the feeling that the home is inhabited preventing it from being an obvious target for squatters. Light and water on timers are a very low cost way to create apparent activity and the appearance of life in the home.

2. DO NOT CANCEL YOUR ELECTRICITY AND WATER SERVICE ACCOUNTS

If your home does not have electricity and water supplies connected, it is more difficult and will cost you more to prove that it is your residence and a squatting incident may not be treated as a break-in: it could be treated as mere squatting in a vacant property and would be processed as such, which may lead to delays.

Contract an online account to monitor water (and electricity if available) meter readings to detect possible illegal use of the supply network to the home.

3. NOTIFY YOUR NEIGHBOURS OR COMMUNITY OF OWNERS

Notify your neighbours or community of owners and leave them a contact telephone number to be notified of any strange, suspicious or squatting incidents. Action in the first 48 hours is very important.

Neighbours' testimony about the homeowner can provide conclusive proof of the residence status of the legitimate owner

4. INSTALL SECURITY MEASURES

Installation or replacement of your front door and others with those offering greater security, and/or locks, will make it more difficult to gain entry and deter squatters, who will be forced to use more complex tools and means, generating noise and nuisance that will alert the neighbours.

In the case of homes with less use or more isolated, well maintained and painted doors and windows  are advised.

5. PURCHASE A HOME INSURANCE WITH SPECIFIC COVERAGE

Take out insurance with specific coverage for squatting so that in case you have to rent accommodation because you are deprived of your own property, insurance will cover the extra expenses, as well as the damage that the squatters may cause.

6. INSTALL AN ALARM WITH CAMERA (WHETHER CONNECTED TO A CONTROL CENTRAL OR NOT)

Having an alarm can deter squatters or warn of imminent squatting. If it has a camera and cloud storage you will have evidence to justify a police search of your home and the use of force to enter.

7. RENT YOUR HOUSE

In cases of not being in residence for long periods, renting it out can be an option that prevents squatting and can help to ensure its maintenance and supply some income. It is recommended to use specialised agents to avoid problems derived from an insufficient contract which could result in bad tenants.

8. AVOID DISPLAYING “FOR SALE” OR “FOR RENT” BOARDS

Avoid displaying “For Sale” or “For Rent” boards or posters on your property, use online platforms as far as possible, indicating the approximate location of your home. Those interested in your home will have to contact you or the sales agent, having to identify themselves to visit the property, and this will dissuade potential squatters.

The regional government provides an anonymous reporting channel (alertokupa@carm.es) where full information should be supplied to identify the home and its location, such as the address of the property (number, street, floor, urbanisation etc) and the municipality in which the property is located. The government will inform the security forces (Policia Local, Guardia Civil) so that they can evaluate the case and respond in a short period of time to confirm if it is an illegal squatting.

FIGHTING ILLEGAL OCCUPATION IS EVERYONE'S RESPONSIBILITY

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