Following a controversial case in Friern Barnet in her constituency, Theresa Villiers, MP for Chipping Barnet, has welcomed a move by the Ministry of Justice to bring forward its plans to criminalise squatting and tackle so called "squatters' rights".
While two unsuspecting home-owners from Glenthorne Road, Friern Barnet were away on holiday, squatters broke in to their home and caused havoc. During that time, the squatters claimed to have a rental agreement for the property, and under “squatters’ rights”, the police were unable to take action to remove them. Local residents in Friern Barnet were horrified to witness the house being emptied of its contents, including all personal items of the owners.
The property owners returned home this week and the police were finally able to get the squatters to leave in the early hours of Wednesday morning. However, they were able to walk away scot-free, having caused extensive damage to the property owner’s home and possessions.
At present, squatting is covered only by civil law. This means that people whose properties are taken over by squatters, often have to go through an expensive and time consuming court process in order to have them evicted. And this doesn’t just happen to abandoned homes or empty warehouses. Seemingly squatters can move in anywhere, at any time, and in the most unexpected of places.
Theresa said, “This is a horrendous case. It is appalling that these people were able to force their way into someone's home, cause so much damage and walk away unpunished.”
"It is high time the law was changed and I strongly welcome the Ministry of Justice’s decision to bring forward its plans to criminalise squatting.”
“It seems completely unfair that the police can take action if your house is burgled, but if squatters move in and take over your entire property, claiming “squatters’ rights”, there is very little the police can do to help. The new laws will provide vital protection and a dose of common sense to bring the law firmly back on to the side of the property owner.”
“For the first time, squatting will be a criminal offence, with persistent offenders facing prison. In addition, the police will have the power to prosecute squatters for the damage they cause when invading a property, for example burglary, criminal damage or using electricity without permission. The same level of protection will also be extended to business property owners.”
“And any claims to “squatters’ rights” which currently prevent the legitimate owners of commercial property from using force to enter their own property if it is occupied by squatters, will be abolished. The Government is also consulting on proposals for the reform of civil legal aid to prevent squatters from getting legal aid to fight eviction.”
“Alongside this, the Government has already taken steps to counter squatting by allocating £100 million to bringing empty houses back into use.”
Until 5th October 2011, the Government are inviting the public to get involved in strengthening the law on squatting. You can make your views know by visiting the Ministry of Justice website at www,justice.gov.uk.