[RPPTL Leasing Committee] 2024 Squatter Law

[csabol sabollaw.com]

Hi Harry,

I have interpreted it the same way you have.  My understanding is that if the resident was lawfully let in (regardless of whether the landlord authorized it), the it's an Unlawful Detainer case or possibly an Eviction of unauthorized occupants.  Only if they literally broke in and are truly "squatting" is where this new statute would apply (IMHO).

There's a difference between "unlawful entry" and "unlawful detainer."  I believe the new statute only applies where this is unlawful entry.  Of course, I could be wrong, so would love to hear some other opinions and experiences.


Cary Sabol
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From: landten-bounces at lists.flabarrpptl.org <landten-bounces at lists.flabarrpptl.org> on behalf of Harry Heist <harry at evict.com>
Sent: Friday, January 24, 2025 10:41 AM
To: RPPTL Real Estate Leasing Committee <landten at lists.flabarrpptl.org>; landtencl at lists.flabarrpptl.org <landtencl at lists.flabarrpptl.org>
Subject: [RPPTL Leasing Committee] 2024 Squatter Law


I was having a discussion with a volume landlord/tenant lawyer regarding the squatter law that went into effect in 2024.



He feels that this law would allow the sheriff to remove an occupant (not listed as such on the lease)  who remained behind after the tenant took off.



I interpret the law as applying to a person who enters a vacant dwelling and starts living there. They may be scammers or they may have been scammed by a fake landlord.



I’m curious what others think.



Thanks!



Harry Heist



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