Homeowners must face the law regarding squatter eviction or face prosecution

The Law Society is urging landlords and homeowners to follow the correct legal procedures if they wish to evict squatters from their property or run the risk of prosecution themselves.

A squatter is not committing a criminal offence by being in another person’s property without their permission. However they are subject to criminal charges if they commit offences such as damage or theft to or in that property.  Similarly, if an owner attempts to use force in order to remove the squatters, they could be accused of a criminal act under the Protection from Evition Act 1977. 

For Law Society President Robert Heslett's view on the matter and more, click here.