UK Squatter Eviction Services – Quick Action

Introduction

Squatters can be a serious issue for landlords and property owners in the UK. Whether they have taken over a vacant residential or commercial property, their presence can lead to legal disputes, financial losses, and property damage. Removing squatters legally requires quick action, and eviction specialists can help ensure the process is efficient and compliant with UK law.

This guide explains how to evict squatters legally, the available legal options, and how to find an eviction specialist near you.

Understanding Squatting in the UK

Squatting is the act of occupying a property without the owner’s permission. While squatting in a residential property is illegal, squatting in commercial buildings is a civil matter, requiring legal eviction procedures.

When is Squatting Illegal?

? Squatting in a residential property is a criminal offense under the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012. ? Changing locks, refusing to leave, or damaging property can result in arrest and fines.

When is Squatting a Civil Issue?

? Squatting in a commercial property (e.g., offices, warehouses, or shops) is not a crime but requires a civil eviction order. ? Property owners must go through the court eviction process to remove squatters legally.

If squatters refuse to leave, property owners must act quickly and legally.

How to Remove Squatters Legally in the UK

1. Contact the Police (For Residential Properties)

• If squatters occupy a residential home, call 999 and report them.

• Police can remove them immediately if squatting is confirmed.

• If police do not act, legal eviction steps may be required.

✅ Fastest method for residential properties ⏳ Timeline: Immediate if police take action

2. Apply for an Interim Possession Order (IPO)

If squatters are in your property for less than 28 days, you can apply for an Interim Possession Order (IPO).

Steps:

1. File an IPO application in court.

2. Serve the IPO to the squatters.

3. Squatters must leave within 24 hours.

4. If they do not leave, police can arrest them.

✅ Quickest legal method if eligible ⏳ Timeline: 24-48 hours

3. Apply for a Full Possession Order (For Long-Term Squatters)

If squatters have been in your property for over 28 days, an IPO is not an option. You must apply for a Full Possession Order.

Steps:

1. File a possession claim in court.

2. Attend a court hearing if required.

3. Obtain a possession order.

4. If squatters refuse to leave, hire bailiffs or High Court enforcement.

✅ Best option for commercial property squatting ⏳ Timeline: 2-6 weeks

4. High Court Bailiff Eviction (Fast-Track Enforcement)

If squatters ignore a possession order, landlords can fast-track eviction with High Court bailiffs.

Steps:

1. Apply for a Writ of Possession in the High Court.

2. High Court Enforcement Officers (HCEOs) issue notice.

3. Squatters are forcibly removed within days.

✅ Fastest enforcement option ⏳ Timeline: 1-3 weeks after possession order

5. Hiring an Eviction Specialist

Legal eviction can be complex, and any mistakes can lead to delays. Eviction specialists help landlords follow correct procedures and speed up the process.

Eviction Specialist Services Include:

✅ Serving possession notices ✅ Court applications for eviction orders ✅ High Court enforcement for fast removal ✅ Emergency eviction services for squatters

? Search for “Eviction Specialist Near Me” to find professionals in your area.

Squatter Removal Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

? Attempting DIY Eviction – Physically removing squatters is illegal and could lead to fines or imprisonment.

? Incorrect Legal Paperwork – Any errors in an eviction notice or court application can delay the process.

? Ignoring High Court Enforcement – County Court bailiffs have long wait times; High Court enforcement is faster.

? Not Acting Quickly – Delaying action can lead to further property damage and financial loss.

✅ Solution: Work with eviction specialists to ensure a smooth legal process.

Cost of Squatter Eviction in the UK

? Interim Possession Order (IPO): £355

? Full Possession Order: £355 - £500

? County Court Bailiff Eviction: £130 - £500

? High Court Bailiff Eviction: £1,000+

? Eviction Specialist Services: £500 - £2,500

While eviction services have costs, they help landlords recover properties faster, reducing financial losses.

Conclusion

Squatter eviction in the UK must follow legal procedures. The best solutions include:

✅ Police Removal for Residential Squatters – Immediate

✅ Interim Possession Order (IPO) for Short-Term Squatters – 24-48 hours

✅ Full Possession Order for Long-Term Squatters – 2-6 weeks

✅ High Court Bailiff Eviction for Fast Enforcement – 1-3 weeks

Working with eviction specialists ensures the fast and legal removal of squatters.

If you need help removing squatters, contact an eviction specialist near me for expert assistance!