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Unlawful occupation requires an immediate, evidence-based response. Police action, criminal complaint, civil recovery and special possession procedures depend on whether the property is a home, second residence, empty asset or subject to a tenancy dispute.
Occupation, trespass or tenancy dispute
A true squatting case differs from a tenant who remains after a lease or a person admitted by an owner, and the legal route changes accordingly.
Use as a primary or genuine second residence can be relevant to criminal classification and urgency.
Immediate evidence and legal route
The owner should preserve evidence, notify police promptly and avoid threats, forced entry or utility manipulation that could create criminal exposure.
Ownership, prior possession, alarm records, neighbours, photographs and communications help establish the facts.
Documents and checks
The deed, fresh Registry extract, identity, utility records, insurance and any contract with occupants form the file.
Title deed and Registry extract
Police report and incident timeline
Alarm, utility and possession evidence
Occupant communications
Insurance and security records
Court recovery and prevention
Civil procedures can seek rapid recovery for qualifying owners, while criminal proceedings may be appropriate for specific offences.
Vulnerable occupants, social-service coordination and statutory suspensions may affect timing without transferring ownership.
Risks and next steps
Advertisements promising physical eviction without court authority expose owners to serious legal and safety risk.
Regional and municipal rules, contractual wording and the property's registry and planning history can change the result. We verify the current file before any payment, signature or enforcement step.
Useful official resources
Official requirements, fees and procedures can change. The competent authority and current rules are checked for each individual case.
Questions about Squatters and Okupas in Spain
Can I change the locks myself?
Not while occupants are inside; self-help can create criminal liability.
Can police remove squatters immediately?
It depends on facts, evidence and offence; prompt reporting is important but no universal 48-hour rule exists.
Do squatters become owners?
Occupation does not quickly transfer ownership; adverse possession requires strict long-term conditions.
Should utilities be cut?
Do not manipulate services without specific legal advice.
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Important: This page provides general information and does not replace individual legal, tax, labour, medical or technical advice. Authorities decide applications and disputes independently. Requirements and practice may change.