A Smarter Way to Keep Squatters Out

Keeping your property free from squatting doesn’t have to be difficult. At Ad Hoc, we offer a practical way to prevent unauthorised access by keeping buildings legally and visibly occupied.

What is Squatting?

Squatting is more than just an inconvenience, it’s a serious risk to vacant property. Once squatters move in, owners often face a long and costly legal process to remove the occupants, along with damage that can take weeks or months to repair.

While squatting in residential buildings is illegal, commercial properties are often more vulnerable due to gaps in legal protection. In contrast, a property that is legally and visibly occupied cannot be squatted.

Vacant properties that become occupied without permission can also affect the wider area. They may attract antisocial behaviour, harm the neighbourhood’s reputation and make surrounding properties harder to lease or sell. The longer the property sits empty, the greater the risk. Acting proactively is the best way to avoid the downward spiral that squatting can create.

The Cost of Removing Squatters

  • Legal action and court fees
  • Repairs due to damage, theft or neglect
  • Higher insurance premiums or loss of cover
  • Delays to redevelopment, sale or letting plans

How Guardianship Helps

Placing carefully vetted guardians in a property provides a strong deterrent to squatting. Occupied buildings are far less likely to be targeted by squatters or vandals.

This is especially important for commercial properties, where legal protections against squatting are weaker and removal processes can be lengthy. By placing responsible guardians on-site, we reduce risk and maintain oversight without the need for static security.

With Ad Hoc’s property guardian solution:

  • Your building remains legally and visibly occupied
  • Regular presence discourages unauthorised entry
  • Guardians help report issues early, reducing risk and repair costs
  • You avoid high security expenses and legal battles
  • The property stays managed and cared for

Property guardianship is a simple, legal and cost-effective way to protect your asset from the risks of vacancy.