May, 10 th, 2016

To occupy or not to occupy an empty property

Luzimar Paiva

Mr. Grant Shapps said squatting is antisocial,

undesirable, and unfair on homeowners (ADVICE,
2010). To avoid this, the UK government published a
guide to stop squatting, which provides homeowners
legal options if squatters move in. Personally I agree
that some actions must be taken to prevent this
situation.

Firstly, squatting is against the law, because it is a nonpermitted property occupation. Secondly, the invaders
often engage with other criminals who sometimes have a violent or drug related
background. This may lead to misbehavior that affects all squatting people.

Thirdly, the government must face this task helping as many squatters as they can. In
most cases, these people should not be forced by the police to leave the properties,
because they deserve good treatment. There are some things we can do, e. g.: search for
cheaper rental room; try to help them finding a job; and include them in public housing
policies and programs.

In conclusion, we all, together with the help of the government, must make an effort to
combat and eradicate this problem.

Bibliography
ADVICE on dealing with squatters in your home. 2010. Available from:
<http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20120919132719/http://www.communities.
gov.uk/documents/housing/pdf/1762615.pdf> [accessed in July, 6th, 2016].
GUIDE to stop squatters published online. BBC News. UK section. Nov. 8th, 2010.
Available from: <http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-11707517> [accessed in July, 6th,
2016].