Florida is the latest among states to pass laws to help homeowners eject squatters. FL Governor Ron DeSantis signed a new law into effect aimed at making it more challenging for squatters to take advantage of property owners. The Sunshine State has taken proactive steps to empower property owners in their fight against squatting, particularly addressing the rise in rental lease scams.  Florida is the first state to criminalize squatting.  New York, Georgia, and Alabama are trying to pass similar laws

Squatting, a practice where individuals unlawfully occupy vacant properties, has unfortunately gained traction in recent times. One prevalent form of this activity involves squatters utilizing fraudulent leases to occupy properties illegally. Until now, property owners faced significant hurdles and time-consuming processes to remove these unlawful occupants.

However, effective July 1st, a streamlined process will be in place to assist property owners in reclaiming their rightful properties. If you are a property owner, all you’ll need to do is visit the sheriff’s office with your identification, proof of ownership, and sign a form. This measure aims to expedite the eviction of squatters and return properties to their rightful owners promptly.

Additionally, the state is taking a firm stance against rental lease scams by elevating them to a first-degree felony. It’s crucial to note that these measures are not intended to facilitate the eviction of legal tenants but rather to protect property owners from fraudulent practices.  In NY squatters are considered tenants after 30 days forcing the homeowner to go through a lengthy court process to evict them.

If you are buying at the tax deed sale, the tax deed laws protect you the high bidder and it makes getting possession of the property from anyone easy as well.  Learn more about this by taking any of our tax deeds courses here.

In essence, Florida’s new law not only streamlines the process for property owners to reclaim their properties from squatters but also imposes stricter penalties on those engaged in rental lease scams. These steps signify a significant effort by the state to safeguard property rights and actively combat illegal occupancy, offering much-needed relief to property owners across Florida. Read more about about this on WFTV.