Key Takeaways
- 1Prevention is far cheaper and faster than eviction (months vs days).
- 2Install an 'Anti-Bumping' lock cylinder to prevent easy entry (€80-150).
- 3A visible alarm connected to the police (CRA) provides the 48-hour proof.
- 4Make the property look occupied: smart lighting, garden maintenance, mail collection.
Quick Answer
Prevent squatters with three key measures: (1) Install anti-bumping locks (€80-150) to prevent easy entry, (2) Get a monitored alarm connected to police—this provides proof of the time of entry for the 48-hour rule (police can evict immediately if caught within 48 hours), (3) Make the property look occupied with smart lighting and regular visits. Prevention costs hundreds; eviction costs thousands and takes months.
With new housing laws making headlines, non-resident owners are understandably worried about squatters ('okupas'). While the media stories can be alarming, the reality is that squatters target easy targets. The key to peace of mind is proactive prevention.
Hardening Your Defenses
Squatters rarely break windows to enter; they prefer to walk in through the front door. Most illegal entries happen using a technique called 'bumping', which opens older locks without leaving signs of forced entry.
Upgrade your locks: Replacing your standard cylinder with a high-security "Anti-Bumping, Anti-Drill, Anti-Pick" cylinder is your first and most important line of defense.
The 48-Hour Rule
Spanish law distinguishes between a "burglary" (allanamiento de morada) and "usurpation" (usurpación). If police catch intruders in the act or within the first 48 hours, they can often evict them immediately. After that, it becomes a civil matter that can take months.
Install an Alarm: Having an alarm system connected to a central monitoring station (CRA) provides immediate proof of the time of entry. This allows police to act immediately, treating the incident as a break-in rather than a squatting case.
The Human Element
An empty house is a target. Making the property look lived-in is crucial.
- Hire a Key Holder: Have someone visit the property weekly to collect mail, open blinds, and check for signs of tampering.
- Smart Lighting: Use smart plugs to turn lights on and off on a schedule.
- Garden Maintenance: An overgrown garden is a clear sign of an empty home. year-round.
Written by
James Wilson
Security Consultant at CostaTrades
Expert contributor covering home maintenance, renovation, and property management on the Costa del Sol. Helping expats navigate Spanish construction and property ownership.
