Squatting is the practice of occupying a property without the consent or approval of the owner of the property. Squatters are people or groups of people who enter and take residence in a property without permission. Squatting has long been a problem in Chicago, and many property owners are struggling to deal with it. This blog will define squatters and explain how to spot them in Chicago.
How to tell if you have squatters in Chicago?
There are several signs that a property may be occupied by squatters. Here are a few things to look for:
1. Neglect and disrepair
Squatters often do not maintain the property they are occupying. Look for signs of neglect and disrepair, such as overgrown lawns, broken windows, or debris in the yard.
2. No mail or utilities
Squatters typically do not have their names on any utilities or receive mail at the property. However, if you are dealing with professional squatters that know the system check for any utility bills or mail addressed to the property to see if anyone is living there.
3. Revolving door of people
Watch for people coming and going from the property. If you see different people coming in and leaving frequently, it may be a sign of squatters living in the property.
4. Security breaches
Look for signs of forced entry, such as broken locks or windows. Squatters may also change the locks to prevent anyone from entering the property, including the actual owners of the property.
5. Unusual behavior
If you notice people living in a property who seem to be secretive or evasive, it may be a sign of squatting.
What to do if you suspect squatters?
If you suspect that a property is being occupied by squatters, it is important to take action quickly. The longer squatters remain in the property, the more difficult it may be to remove them. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Contact the police
If you see suspicious activity or believe that a property is being occupied by squatters, contact the police immediately. They can investigate and determine if squatters are present.
2. Hire a property manager
A property manager can help you monitor your property and identify any signs of squatting. They can also help you take legal action to remove squatters.
3. File a complaint
If you believe that a property is being occupied by squatters, you can file a complaint with the city of Chicago’s Department of Buildings.
4. Consult an eviction attorney
If you are having trouble removing squatters from your property, consult an attorney. They can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that your rights as a property owner are protected.
5. Adding security cameras
Adding cameras to your property to monitor while you are away is a deterrent for anyone looking to squat in your property.
In conclusion, squatters can be a major problem for property owners in Chicago. If you own a property that is vacant it’s important to safeguard your property by installing cameras and a security system. If you’re a homeowner in Chicago and you’re dealing with the frustration and stress of having squatters in your property and are considering selling, reach out to us at Onyx Homes LLC to discuss what options are available to you. For more information about our home buying process, give us a call at (847) 262-9012