Politics

DeSantis Signs Law to End Squatter Scams in Florida

Mar 27, 2024 1 min read

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Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has enacted HB 621, a law designed to prevent and address squatting in the state. The new legislation, which becomes effective on July 1, simplifies the procedure for property owners to evict unauthorized occupants from their property. It introduces the option for property owners to seek assistance from sheriff's offices, which may charge an hourly fee for their services. The law also establishes increased criminal penalties for those found squatting, including misdemeanors for presenting fraudulent leases and causing significant property damage.

Under HB 621, individuals claiming to reside in a property must provide proof such as a notarized lease or evidence of rent payment upon request. Property owners now have the ability to file a verified complaint with the county sheriff for the swift removal of squatters. The legislation includes immunity provisions to protect both the sheriff’s office and property owners from liability for any property loss or damage during eviction, except in cases of wrongful action. Additionally, the law allows for a civil cause of action for individuals wrongfully evicted to seek damages.

The bill's passage follows concerns raised over squatter scams and property rights violations. The issue gained attention after a News4JAX investigation revealed loopholes that enabled individuals to occupy homes rent-free, sometimes causing extensive delays and financial losses for property owners. Gov. DeSantis, positioning Florida as a "law and order" state, contrasted the new law with more lenient approaches to squatter's rights seen in other states, aiming to prioritize the rights of lawful property owners.

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