Governor DeSantis Signs HB 621 to Address Property Rights and Squatting in Florida
Recently, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 621 (HB 621) into law. This new legislation aims to provide homeowners with effective remedies against squatting and introduce stricter penalties for those involved in such activities.
Key Provisions of HB 621
HB 621 empowers property owners by allowing them to request immediate law enforcement intervention to remove squatters from their properties under specific conditions:
Unlawful Entry: The individual must have unlawfully entered and remained on the property.
Owner's Directive: The property owner must have directed the individual to leave the property, which the individual has not complied with.
Exclusion of Tenants: The individual must not be a current or former tenant involved in a legal dispute with the property owner.
These measures' goal is to streamline the process for property owners to reclaim their homes, minimizing delays, litigation, and financial losses due to missed rents.
Increased Penalties for Squatting
In addition to providing remedies for property owners, HB 621 also establishes stringent penalties for those who engage in squatting or facilitate it:
- First-Degree Misdemeanor: Making a false statement in writing to obtain real property or knowingly presenting a falsified document conveying property rights.
- Second-Degree Felony: Unlawfully occupying or trespassing in a residential dwelling and intentionally causing $1,000 or more in damages.
- First-Degree Felony: Knowingly advertising the sale or rent of a residential property without legal authority or ownership.
Impact on Homeowners and Property Managers
The enactment of HB 621 aims to ensure that property owners and managers in Florida have the tools and legal backing to protect their properties from unlawful occupation. By addressing the issue of squatting comprehensively, the new law attempt to safeguard property values and the rights of legitimate property owners.
Conclusion
At Watson Property Management, we understand the challenges that property owners face in maintaining and protecting their investments. We are committed to staying informed about legislative changes that impact our industry and ensuring that our clients are well-equipped to navigate these changes.
