Major Change To Housing Law In New York State

A change to New York housing law benefits landlords. Homeowners in New York State are celebrating 7 words that have changed the law that significantly benefit them.

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Do Squatters Have More Rights Than Homeowners In New York?

Recently, a fed-up homeowner was arrested after trying to rid her home of squatters. Yes, you read that right, she was ARRESTED! The woman from Queens was taken into custody on charges of unlawful eviction after trying to remove squatters from her late parents' home. The interaction between the rightful owner, Adele Andaloro, and the squatters was caught on camera by ABC 7 News.

Credit: Eyewitness News ABC7NY via Youtube

Do Squatters Have More Rights Than Legal Owners In New York?

Based on the latest interactions, it might seem that way. Can squatters legally take up tenancy in your home, building, or property in New York State like the squatters did to Adele? Short answer, YES...but changes to the law are designed to make it much easier for homeowners to get rid of squatters.

Read More: Can A Stranger Legally Take Ownership Of Your Home In New York State?

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In the 2024-2025 Fiscal Year Executive Budget, Governor Kathy Hochul has agreed to amend existing housing law "to make clear that squatters are not tenants, and thus are not entitled to these and other tenant protections." Legislators and homeowners alike hope that this change will stop squatters from using tenants' rights to protect them from the legal ramifications of illegally occupying properties. The change is supposed to make it easier for police to remove squatters without owners having to go through costly eviction courts.

The real test of the change will come when a homeowner or landlord calls on police to remove a squatter. I can foresee some police departments still not wanting to get involved and saying that the issue belongs in housing court.