How to avoid squatting in a home

Preventing squatting in a home has become a growing concern, especially in areas such as Garraf and Penedès, where cases have increased considerably. Municipalities such as Vilanova i la Geltrú and Vilafranca del Penedès are seeing how this phenomenon affects both private properties and entire buildings. Faced with this problem, it is essential to know and apply measures that help us protect our properties and prevent squatting in a home.

Why is it important to avoid squatting in a home?

Squatting not only affects the security of properties, but also generates conflicts between neighbours and deteriorates coexistence in communities. In Catalonia, cases of squatting have reached alarming levels, far exceeding the national average in terms of complaints. For owners, this not only represents an economic loss, but also a vulnerability to possible damage to their properties.

The College of Property Managers of Barcelona-Lleida has prepared a guide with key recommendations for Prevent squatting in a home and how to act in case it occurs. Below we detail some of these tips, adapted so that you can effectively protect your home.

How to Prevent Squatters from Entering Buildings

For Prevent squatting in a home or building, it is essential to implement certain security measures to make unauthorized access difficult. Here are some recommendations:

1. Building Access Control
   Do not open the door to strangers. It is essential that neighbours remain alert and do not allow access to people they do not clearly identify. If someone rings the doorbell or the video intercom and you do not know who it is, do not open the door.
2. Monitoring of Vulnerable Areas
   Less-trafficked areas of the building, such as storage rooms, attics, or garages, are often weak points. If your building does not have a doorman, it is advisable to have neighbors walk through these areas frequently to detect any unusual activity.
3. Detection of Signs of Squatting
   If you notice food remains, cigarette butts or other foreign objects in common areas, do not hesitate to call the police. Acting quickly can be key to Prevent squatting in a home inside the building.
4. Lock Review
   Keep the locks on your entrance in good condition. It is important that they do not have any looseness and are difficult to force. A robust security system is one of the first barriers to protecting your property.

How to Prevent Your House from Being Squatted If You Go on Vacation

Holidays are a critical period in which homes are left unoccupied, increasing the risk of squatting. Prevent squatting in a home During your absence, follow these tips:

1. Leave Someone In Charge
   Ask a friend or family member to stop by your house every other day to change the position of the blinds, move the curtains and collect the mail. This will give the impression that the house is occupied.
2. Discretion on Social Media
   Don't post your holiday plans on social media. It's better to keep your absence private so as not to give clues to potential squatters.

Measures to Avoid Squatting in Empty Homes or Premises

The economic crisis has led many people to turn to squatting as an alternative to housing. If you own a second home or a disused premises, it is crucial to take additional measures to Prevent squatting in your home or local:

1. Installation of Security Systems
   Install alarms, security doors and consider boarding up windows in vacant premises. These measures deter squatters by making access more difficult.
2. Regular Maintenance
   Schedule regular window cleaning and mail removal. A property that looks inhabited is less attractive to squatters.
3. Occupancy Simulation
   Install devices that turn lights on and off automatically. This simulates the presence of people in the home, helping to Prevent squatting in a home uninhabited.

What to do if your house, premises or building is occupied

If, despite all precautions, you detect or suspect that a home, premises or building has been squatted, follow these steps:

1. Don't Confront Directly
   Never try to solve the problem on your own. Confronting squatters can be dangerous and counterproductive.
2. Contact the Authorities
   Call the police immediately and notify the property. It is vital that the authorities handle the eviction legally and safely.

Don't forget that having good home insurance is an essential tool to guarantee your peace of mind and protect your investment. If you have any questions or need more information, don't hesitate to contact us. Contact us or search in our websiteWe help you sell your property and manage your community or assets. We have offices in Vilanova, Vilafranca, Sitges and RibesWe are coming to you!