A homeowner in Marietta, GA, found her home occupied by a squatter who claimed Georgia’s laws protected him. The state has since criminalized unauthorized occupancy, allowing for quicker removal of squatters.

Empty homes in the U.S. are increasingly becoming targets for squatters, with an estimated 5.6 million vacant properties across major metro areas. Legal protections for homeowners are being strengthened to prevent unauthorized occupants.

Despite recent legal changes in Georgia, gaps in handling squatting cases persist. Homeowners are urged to take preventive measures such as installing cameras, checking properties regularly, and documenting conditions to protect against squatters.

Lawmakers across the U.S. are tightening squatter laws in response to cases like these. Florida and New York have passed legislation to expedite the removal of squatters, providing more protection for property owners.

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Read more at Yahoo Finance: Georgia squatter claims ‘peaceful hostile takeover’ of home as US states move to strengthen owner protections