New Laws to Protect Landlords

Squatter Crackdown: Spain’s Swift New Law Prioritizes Homeowners

Spain’s Congress has passed a groundbreaking anti-squatter law that promises to evict "okupas" faster than ever before. This dramatic reform, which aims to cut eviction times from months to mere hours, is sparking widespread debate across the country.

The newly approved legislation has already cleared Congress and now moves to the Senate for final approval. Once published in the Boletín Oficial del Estado (BOE), the changes will come into immediate effect.

What’s Changing?
The reform updates articles 245 and 202 of the Penal Code, making squatting a fast-track offence. Cases of usurpation and unlawful entry will now be resolved in expedited trials, reducing eviction times to 15 days or less. This will replace the lengthy and costly eviction processes currently in place, offering faster resolution for property owners.

Spain is home to over 15,000 illegally occupied properties, with regions like Toledo particularly affected. The government hopes this law will restore confidence among property owners and stabilize the rental market.

Exploiting Loopholes
Squatters have become increasingly resourceful in avoiding eviction. One notorious trick involves ordering pizza to the property and using the receipt, dated over 48 hours earlier, to claim residency. These loopholes have frustrated homeowners for years.

What About Families with Children?
The new law includes provisions for cases involving minors, where social services will assess the situation before eviction proceeds. This could slow the process but ensures protections for vulnerable children.

A Legal Turning Point
The 'anti-okupas' law represents a landmark moment for property rights in Spain. While many homeowners welcome the changes, critics argue it may disproportionately harm vulnerable groups and raise concerns about social protections.

As Spain moves to enforce faster evictions, the debate shifts to what comes next. Will this lead to increased investment in social housing? For many, the question is not just about removing squatters but finding lasting solutions to housing inequality.