New Anti-Squatter Law Helps Protect Private Property Rights
Florida Enacts New Law to Combat Squatting and Protect Property Owners
Orlando, Fla. — May 2024
Governor Ron DeSantis has officially signed HB 621, a landmark piece of legislation aimed at protecting property rights and providing homeowners with robust measures against squatting. This new law, set to take effect on July 1, 2024, establishes clear guidelines for the immediate removal of squatters and introduces severe penalties for those involved in illegal squatting activities.
- Key Provisions for Immediate Squatter Removal
Under HB 621, property owners in Florida can request law enforcement to promptly remove squatters from their property, provided certain conditions are met. These conditions are designed to streamline the process and prevent the costly delays typically associated with squatter removal. The conditions include:
- The requester must be the property owner or an authorized agent.
- The property in question must be a residential dwelling.
- Squatters must have entered and remain on the property unlawfully.
- The property was not open to the public at the time of entry.
- The owner must have directed the squatters to leave.
- The squatters are not current or former tenants under a rental agreement authorized by the owner.
- The squatters are not immediate family members of the owner.
- There is no pending litigation related to the property between the owner and any known squatters.
Meeting all these conditions allows the property owner or authorized agent to ask the county sheriff for the immediate removal of the squatters.
Penalties for Squatting
The new legislation also imposes stringent penalties to deter illegal squatting:
Second-Degree Felony: Squatters who detain, occupy, or trespass on a home and cause $1,000 or more in damages commit a second-degree felony.
First-Degree Misdemeanor: Any individual who knowingly and willfully presents a false lease agreement, deed, or other document claiming the right to occupy the property commits a first-degree misdemeanor.
First-Degree Felony: A person who advertises a home for sale, knowing that the supposed seller lacks legal title or authority to sell the property, commits a first-degree felony. Additionally, anyone who rents or leases property to another person without lawful ownership or leasehold interest also commits a first-degree felony.
Statements from Florida Officials
Governor DeSantis emphasized the importance of this legislation in protecting property owners and maintaining order. "We are putting an end to the squatters scam in Florida. While other states are siding with the squatters, we are protecting property owners and punishing criminals looking to game the system," he said.
Attorney General Ashley Moody echoed the Governor's sentiments, highlighting the broader implications of the law. "Florida is once again leading the nation, this time in securing our state against squatters. With millions of illegal immigrants flooding across the border, we must ensure Floridians are protected from this egregious and brazen scheme," she stated. Moody also expressed gratitude to Governor DeSantis and Representative Kevin Steele for their roles in bringing this critical legislation to fruition.
With HB 621, Florida sets a precedent in the fight against illegal squatting, ensuring that property owners can reclaim their homes swiftly and that those who engage in or promote squatting face substantial penalties. This proactive stance reinforces Florida's commitment to upholding property rights and maintaining the rule of law.
