Squatters in Texas Have More Rights Than People Realize

Most people would love to have a rental property in the state of Texas, it’s something that could be a source of revenue in the right situation, but it also comes with risk.

My wife and I have had a rental property in the past, but we have since sold that and it’s nice to not have to have that risk. We have all heard or seen things online about squatters taking over homes, but did you know in the state of Texas squatters have more rights than you think?   

A squatter is defined as anyone who has taken up possession of property that is unoccupied, foreclosed, or abandoned without informing or seeking permission from the legal owner. This is the part that is crazy to me, according to our laws squatting is completely legal. It’s not considered trespassing unless the owner can prove that the squatter is not welcome.  

How Is Squatting Not Trespassing?

Trespassing is a criminal offense, squatting is a civil matter. Squatters do have rights, but they must fulfill the requirements for adverse possession to take advantage of those rights. Squatters cannot claim adverse possession of state or government land.

Squatters Can Destroy Your Property

The last thing you want is unwelcome guests trying to take possession of your property. Be very careful about who you allow to occupy your residence. If you want to know more about Squatters and their rights in the state of Texas, click here.