HOUSTON, Texas – Property owners across the Houston area and beyond often fear that an unwanted guest could move into their vacant home, refuse to leave, and eventually claim ownership.
In a one-on-one interview with KPRC 2 Investigates, Harris County Precinct 2 Constable Jerry Garcia shared insights into how his office tackles squatters.
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Garcia emphasized the importance of terminology and community involvement in addressing these situations effectively.
“We don’t like the term ‘squatters’ because it’s overly used and often misapplied,” Garcia explained. “In many cases, they’re not truly squatters, but people are quick to label them as such because it’s a familiar term.”
Garcia outlined the protocol his office follows when they receive calls about potential squatters.
“We treat these individuals as trespassers initially,” he said. “We identify them, ask them why they’re there, how long they’ve been there, and if they can produce a lease. We ask a series of questions to determine if they indeed fit the criteria for squatters.”
Garcia stressed the importance of addressing these situations as trespassing issues first.
“We want to make sure they’re not committing a criminal offense. If they’re not, we then consider the possibility that they might be squatters,” he said. “Squatters have to meet specific criteria, such as being there for a certain amount of time, maintaining the property, and paying utilities and taxes.”
To help avoid this? Garcia said your neighbors play a crucial role.
“Neighbors are very important in dealing with squatters. We always advise them to call us as soon as they see someone move into an abandoned home,” Garcia noted. “The longer they’re there, the harder it is to remove them. People shouldn’t have to live in fear, unable to go outside or let their kids play because of unfamiliar individuals moving in and out of a nearby property. Usually, these situations involve drugs, prostitution, and other negative activities. If you see something, call us immediately.”
Addressing the difficulties his deputies face, Garcia pointed out that many of the individuals they encounter are homeless or involved in illegal activities.
“These aren’t the kind of people you want living next to you. They tend to be lawbreakers, drug users, and sometimes even more dangerous individuals,” he said.
So, what’s being done? Garcia said legislators are working.
“Legislators have heard our pleas and those of our citizens. They understand it’s a significant problem, and they’re working on it,” he said. “I’m confident they will make the necessary changes to help us protect our communities.”
He also emphasized the importance of community policing in building trust between law enforcement and residents.
“We need to build relationships with the community so they know we’re here to help,” he said. “We take every call seriously and ensure that our citizens feel heard and supported.”