Following the bill’s report stage in the House of Commons on 14 January 2025, the Second Reading took place in the House of Lords on 4 February 2025. This session provided the members with an opportunity to debate the main principles and...
Commercial property owners have become increasingly at risk of having squatters occupy their premises. There are two main factors that have led to an increase in squatters most recently. Unfortunately, during the recession many landlords found that their properties became vacant as businesses struggled. Combined with the fact that in September 2012 it became a criminal offence to squat in a residential property.
The legislation does not apply to commercial property, open land or previous tenants. It is estimated that approximately 15% of commercial properties are empty and a high proportion of these are in London due to the density of offices, shops and pubs in this area. We can assist landlords in relation to squatters regardless of where the premises are located in the country. We have been appointed by commercial property landlords with these issues throughout the Boroughs of London as well as nationwide.