For years, the squatting movement in Spain has known how to invade houses and occupy them without eviction due to legal loopholes. According to the Popular Party, "the squatting problem is constantly growing in Spain." The party, therefore, promises express 24-hour evictions, emulating other countries such as Germany, where this solution already exists. In this context, this article will examine how this social phenomenon is dealt with in other European countries.
Germany
According to El Economista, eviction takes place 24 hours after the landlord knows about it and has reported it to the police. The German justice system imposes a one-year prison sentence, which could also include a fine. Sentences could go up to two years in cases involving several people or violence.
On the other hand, if, after eviction, the squatted property is in disrepair, the landlord is obliged to renovate it.
United Kingdom
In the UK, squatting is punishable by a maximum penalty of 51 weeks' imprisonment and fines of up to €5,700. Moreover, the police can enter the property to evict if they suspect squatting and do not require court authorisation. Landlords have two alternatives: they can make a claim for possession or fill in an "interim possession order" form. After serving it, squatters can be imprisoned if they do not vacate the property within 24 hours.
France
The French government has recently passed a new law. In France, squatting is an illegal act punishable by up to three years in prison and a fine of up to €45,000. Squatters must leave the property within 48 hours of receiving an eviction notice; if not, the landlord can notify the police, who are authorised to evict them immediately without needing a court ruling. After more time, the landlord reports the incident and enforces the eviction through a quick court process.
Italy
In Italy, landlords must first report squatting to the police, followed by a quick trial, whereby the police can proceed with expulsion and eviction. Squatters can receive a maximum sentence of two years in prison and a fine of between €103 and €1,032, which can increase if violence or weapons are used.
Article seen in Spanish in (El Economista)
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