The activities of squatters have intensified in recent years, fueling the apprehension of many owners. Situations occur mainly in vacant houses, second homes or properties that remain closed for long periods, making them easy targets for illegal occupations.
This phenomenon has become even more complex due to the increasingly organized and planned way in which the so-called squats operate, using methods that make immediate intervention difficult and delay the recovery of properties by their owners.
According to recent information released by the Spanish Government, cited by the British website, the slowness of the courts and the limitations on the authorities’ rapid action end up leaving many owners in a situation of impasse. Legislation and procedural deadlines can make repossessing a property a long and expensive process.
How the absence of residents is detected
Before moving on to occupy, the invaders seek to confirm that the house is effectively empty. To do this, they resort to simple methods, such as applying glue, tape or plastic to doors and windows, returning days later to check whether these signs remain intact.
In some cases, they even interfere with basic services, turning off the water supply and observing whether there is subsequent consumption, which would indicate the presence of residents.
Home deliveries and forged papers
One of the most ingenious strategies involves ordering meals for the occupied address. Proof of these deliveries are then used as alleged proof of residence.
When combined with falsified lease contracts or other manipulated documents, these elements can significantly complicate the authorities’ action and force owners to go to court to regain possession of the properties.
Tactics to delay intervention
After occupying the residence, squatters resort to various methods to make access difficult and save time. Among the most common are the replacement of locks, which are often glued or blocked from the inside, making it impossible for the owner to enter.
Instruments such as hammers, crowbars or drills are also used to force doors and windows, which worsens material damage and prolongs the eviction process.
Measures to reduce the risk
Experts emphasize the importance of prevention. Reinforcing the security of properties with alarm systems and visible cameras can act as a deterrent and, in the event of an attempted break-in, provide relevant evidence.
Avoiding signs of abandonment such as visible sales signs or excessive online information about extended absence is also recommended.
The importance of proximity surveillance
The role of neighbors can be decisive. An attentive community, which observes suspicious movements and alerts the authorities quickly, can stop occupations at an early stage. Maintaining regular contact with those who live nearby is, for many homeowners, one of the most effective forms of protection.
The Local highlights that the growth of this type of occupation and the degree of sophistication of the practices used force owners to maintain constant vigilance, otherwise they face long and difficult legal processes to recover their properties.
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