Strikes Property Services Group offers a swift, lawful and ethical eviction service aimed at peacefully removing squatters from commercial property. We understand the challenges: financial loss, property damage, and security concerns. To maximise the effectiveness of service, it’s important to contact us as soon as squatters are found to be trespassing in a property.
At Strikes, we pride ourselves on being contactable when we’re needed most, with emails and phones answered promptly. We keep all stakeholders informed at every step, for complete transparency and peace of mind. After every squatter eviction, we provide a detailed report, which goes above and beyond industry standard – and we never withhold client’s money.
Our experienced team, including Certificated Enforcement Agents, brings extensive experience and knowledge to every case, and we adopt a practical, hands-on approach. This often allows us to achieve eviction without the need for immediate court intervention, potentially saving you money. Agents aim for peaceable possession every time, and are trained in deescalating tense situations and remaining calm.
Squatting creates significant problems for commercial property owners. Prompt action is essential – it’s important to get us involved from the outset for the fastest favourable outcomes.
What is Squatter Eviction?
“Squatter eviction” refers to the legal process of removing individuals who occupy a property without the owner’s permission. A squatter is defined as someone who enters and occupies a property without consent, distinguishing them from those who initially entered with permission, such as tenants in arrears.
Since September 2012, squatting in residential buildings has been a criminal offense, punishable by imprisonment and fines. However, squatting in non-residential properties is not inherently criminal, although related actions like property damage, theft, or unauthorised utility use are. Squatters possess minimal security of tenure and can face court proceedings at any time, sometimes even eviction without a court order.
While squatters are generally considered homeless under the Housing Act 1996, they are also protected from violent eviction under the Criminal Law Act 1977. Property owners should never attempt to remove squatters using force. Legal avenues for eviction include: obtaining an Interim Possession Order (IPO), which requires squatters to leave within 24 hours, or pursuing a possession claim through the County Court. In certain circumstances, such as when a displaced residential occupier (DRO) or protected intending occupier (PIO) is involved, eviction without a court order is possible. Ultimately, court-issued warrants for possession must be enforced by county or High Court bailiffs.
All of our agents are always dressed appropriately with body armour and centrally monitored and audited Body Worn Video. Any threats or other intimidation can be recorded as evidence for the police if required and they log events so there is a record of the service.
