According to a June 11, 2015 article in the Sun Sentinel, by
Gary M. Singer, a Florida attorney who is an expert in Real Estate law, owners
cannot remove a squatter from their property without a court order, even if
that person moves into your property without your knowledge or permission. You
are not allowed to remove the person/s or their belongings and you are not
allowed to change the locks or turn off utilities. Interestingly enough this
also applies to your guests in your own home!
In order to remove the squatter you will need to file an “unlawful
detainer” or “ejection” lawsuit depending on the situation to get the police to
help. Mr. Singer recommends you sign a written lease agreement with anyone who is
staying with you for more than a few days.
As those of us who live in Florida
know all too well, we are usually the hotel of choice for family and friends
visiting from the north during those cold winter months. Can you just imagine the
look on your guest’s faces the next time they come to stay and you whip out a
written lease agreement for them to sign? In my opinion I'd rather be safe than sorry!
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