Bill Amends Louisiana Law to Address Criminal Trespassing and Squatters
Industry Update
July 17, 2024
Full Bill Text: LA SB466
Effective 8/1/2024, Louisiana Senate Bill 466 will amend Louisiana law to address criminal trespassing and squatters. This amendment defines “remaining in or upon property” to include situations where an occupant remains on a property for more than five (5) days after being served notice to vacate, a squatter who has been directed to leave, and a person violating a restraining or injunction order. It allows for a temporary restraining order to be issued without notice when a plaintiff asserts they are being denied use of property they have an ownership, possessory, or lease interest in by someone without a legal interest in the property.
Safeguard Properties has created the following list of ‘Best Practices’ to protect properties from instances of squatting.
- Secure the Property
- Locks and Bolts: Ensure all doors and windows have robust locks. Use heavy-duty deadbolts and padlocks.
- Steel Security Screens and Doors: These are highly durable and difficult to breach, preventing unauthorized access.
- Regular Inspections
- Frequent Visits: Schedule regular inspections to heck the property’s condition and ensure no on has entered.
- Inspection Frequency Adjustment: In high target zip codes, schedule inspections at 14-day intervals instead of monthly.
- Visible Security Measures
- Security Cameras: Install visible security cameras around the property. Even non-functional dummy cameras can act as a deterrent.
- Alarm Systems: Set up alarm systems that can alert you or local authorities if someone tries to enter.
- Maintain the Property
- Clean and Clear: Keep the property well-maintained, including mowing the lawn and clearing debris. A well-kept property appears inhabited and deters squatters.
- Legal Measures
- Proper Documentation: Ensure all paperwork and ownership documentation is up-to-date and easily accessible in case legal action is needed.
- Technological Solutions
- Smart Locks and Security Systems: Modern smart locks and security systems can be controlled remotely, allowing for better management of the property’s security.
- Motion Sensor Lighting: Installing motion-activated lights can deter squatters by making it difficult to approach a property unnoticed.
To utilize any of the above techniques at a specific property to deter squatters, contact Safeguard Properties.
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