Senate Bill 448: AAGLA’s Anti-Squatter Bill

Senate Bill 448: AAGLA’s Anti-Squatter Bill

The Trespassing Response and Remedies Act Would Protect Property Owners from Unlawful Trespassers (Squatters)

The Apartment Association of Greater Los Angels and its statewide affiliate, the California Rental Housing Association, proudly sponsors this critical legislative solution intended to safeguard property owners and renters.

The Apartment Association of Greater Los Angeles and the California Rental Housing Association (CalRHA) is proud to have initiated and sponsor Senate Bill 448 (State Senator Umberg), a newly introduced bill that will address the rising problem of trespassers unlawfully occupying properties across the state.

Unauthorized trespassers, or “squatters,” are a growing problem in California that is threatening property owners and renters. Senate Bill 448 offers a clearly defined and straightforward framework for property owners to reclaim their properties and protect our neighborhoods. More and more, illegal trespassers have taken advantage of victims of disasters such as the recent wildfires and occupy vacant properties.

Unauthorized occupants or squatters threaten property owners' rights and pose significant safety risks and financial burdens. Also referred to as the Trespassing Response and Remedies Act, Senate Bill 448 balances the need for housing providers to reclaim their rental properties quickly and efficiently while upholding vital renter protections. This bill comes at a time when the supply of rental housing is extremely low, and this bill provides for a comprehensive process for Californians, local governments, and law enforcement to tackle the issue of illegal squatting, and will help ensure that quality, affordable housing remains accessible to lawful renters so that our communities are protected from the dangers and disruptions caused by illegal trespassing.

Unlawful trespassing has become a nationwide problem, with states such as New York, Pennsylvania, and Georgia taking decisive action in 2024 by passing laws to tackle this growing issue.