Phoenix (AZ Family) — A growing number of squatters are taking over Valley properties, targeting snowbirds who live only part-time in Arizona.
Officer Scott Blake says this is especially a problem for retirement communities in the West Valley.
“Yes, there are more evictions now, so there are more squatters,” Blake said.
Blake said he gets called out every week because squatters are breaking into homes across the metropolitan area.
In some cases, weeks or even months can go by without the squatters noticing.
“Almost every week, I had to call someone in from an empty room,” he said.
Some of these squatters have fake rental agreements, making eviction even more difficult.
If law enforcement determines they may be legitimate documents, the landlord, property manager or owner will be forced to proceed with the eviction process in court, Blake said.
So how can you protect your home?
Blake says it’s best to install timed lighting at night to make it look like someone is living inside.
You can also keep a trash can outside to keep your property clean and ask your neighbors to park their cars in your driveway.
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