NEW YORK (NewsNation) — Squatters’ rights in New York City may change soon, with residents expressing concerns about their safety amid an influx of squatters appearing in their neighborhoods.
Proposed bills in the state Legislature would, for the first time, differentiate between squatters and tenants and create a shift in protections.
New York State Assemblyman Jake Blumencranz introduced Assembly Bill 6894, which would “protect the rights of homeowners and add squatting to the definition of criminal trespassing.”
It comes as New York City Mayor Eric Adams said the city is exploring changing its squatting laws.
In a recent incident, neighbors suspect squatters have returned to a home in the area, following three fires reportedly caused by the squatters as recently as last month. Other neighbors claim illegal tenants are damaging nearby homes and stealing water, gas and electricity.
Additionally, delays in the demolition and construction of a center for young adults with special needs in Queens were attributed to a squatter occupying a home that used to be on the property. The building’s owner said it took six months and $100,000 in legal fees to reclaim her family’s rightful property.
This incident occurred outside the center where a state senator introduced legislation aimed at stripping squatters of tenant rights.
“What we do is change tenancy from 30 to 45 days, so you can’t have month-to-month issues we’ve been seeing; you have to provide evidence,” Blumencranz told NewsNation. “In my opinion, that would be title and right permission from the rightful owner or payment of rent. Third, we make squatting a criminal trespass charge.”
Last week, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed legislation allowing property owners to call the sheriff’s office to remove squatters lacking proper documentation that they’re allowed to live at the property.
Now, New York residents are questioning whether the state and city will implement similar measures.