Protecting Your Investment: Guarding Against Squatter Takeovers

Dear Valued Customers,

At 1 Systems Installation, we understand that your property investments are valuable and protecting them is one of our top priorities. A growing concern among property investors is the problem of squatters—individuals who illegally occupies vacant property (sometimes taking advantage of loopholes in the law to escape detection for extended periods of time).

Understanding the Squatter Problem

Squatting is when people illegally take over an already vacant or unoccupied home. It varies by state, but many jurisdictions recognize the right to stay in certain homes for specific lengths of time, which makes eviction very time consuming and complicated for the property owner. For instance, recent reports in New York City have highlighted how squatters have been jumping through hoops in the courts and using legal loopholes that make them legitimately claim their homes, creating significant problems for both landlords and renters. New York Post

The Chamberlains' Ordeal:

If you’d like to go back to Jennifer and John Chamberlain, for example, from Salem, Ore., who offered a homeless woman a temporary place to stay in their shed, though the woman took advantage of Oregon's squatter laws to get what she needed without signing a contract or paying for the shed with money. And although the Chamberlains took some steps -- including giving her verbal notice, and even writing her out if they'd need it -- the process to evict the woman was lengthy and very expensive.

Property Security Is Massively Important:

At the same time these cases highlight the need for proactive property security measures because if vacant properties do not receive adequate protection they may become the focus of un-authorized occupants, which could lead to legal disputes, damage to property and loss of income.

How 1 Systems Installation Can Help:

To ensure your property is always safe, a comprehensive security system is crucial. Since this is a sensitive issue and no one will come to your home or business if they aren’t authorized, we offer turnkey security solutions to prevent un-authorized entry. These features include: The Heartland 

Remote access: From anywhere in the world you can watch live footage as well as receive alerts.

Integrated Alarms: Instantaneous alert to devices in case of un-authorized access

Recent Developments in Squatter Legislation

It’s no secret that squatters present issues of their own; several states have passed laws to help evict them faster and give property owners additional protection. For example, in April 2024 Georgia decided to pass the Squatter Reform Act to streamline eviction processes and impose more penalties for squatters.

Your Security is Our Priority

At 1 Systems Installation we want to help you protect your investments! By introducing high-quality security measures you can greatly reduce the risk of squatter-related damage and maintain the safety and integrity of your property.

Get in touch with us today to schedule a consultation. Our objective is to assist you in staying safe.

• Phone: (845) 935-2600

• Email: [email protected]

• Website: 1systemsinstallation.com

Stay safe and secure,

The 1 Systems Installation Team