Dispute is a civil matter
THE fact a group of people can move into another person's property and set up utility bills without permission often prompts the question: why is this not illegal?
But while squatting is illegal in Scotland, it is still a civil matter in Wales and England. This means disputes are kept between the squatters and the owners or tenants.
But this could all change if the Westminster Government passes a bill which would enable the police to prevent actions like those of the Dolphin Hotel squatters.
The Legal Aid Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Bill 2010-12 has been passed by the House of Commons and is in the committee stage of the House of Lords.
It would mean trespass would become a criminal offence, thus making squatting illegal.
The squatters at the Dolphin said they gained entry through an open window, therefore not breaking current laws. They have taken over the electricity bill but are without water after yesterday's events.
However, a change in the law is not all they have to contend with: there are also council and fire regulations.
As squatter Jules put it: "We may soon drown in red tape."
4 Comments
by UpperBank
Sunday, February 05 2012, 1:53AM
“This is the general tone: clamp down, harsher sentencing, more jail sentences, tougher police approaches, squatters, filth, homeless, feckless youths, criminality, influx of crime... don't you newspapers ever give it a rest? Seriously listen to yourself. In the end, it's just a long list of terms used to inflame local opinion to sell newspapers.”
by huwwuh
Saturday, February 04 2012, 4:19PM
“They should be hanged with the red tape.”
by immigrant1
Saturday, February 04 2012, 3:45PM
“calvinSX - the Dolphin is owned by a limited company and not a corporation. And the limited company is owned by people. So what right do you have to move into their property. It's not yours, so get out. Squatters should be sent to jail. Minimum term 2 years.
If you are quatting then you have assumed responsibility for the property, so you should have assessed the plumbing before switching the water on. That's what anyone sensible would have done.
The Dolphin hasn't been abandoned. Now is not a good time to sell or renovate, as the economy is not good.
If you want it as a community center, then offer to buy or rent it.”
by calvinSX
Saturday, February 04 2012, 2:55PM
“first the dolphin is NOT owned by a person but by a corporation ... stating "people can move into another person's property" is somewhat inflammatory and a disingenuous argument ... the property has been abandoned for some time and the council have not monitored usage in that time ! The water problem has been revealed by use ... something that would have gotten worse the loinger it is left ... this is why the council have a duty of care to ensure all premises are maintained by their owners ... I would further point out that businesses who occupy premises next to vacant ones should be aware of the likely problems, and engage with the council over such issues, rather than just operating as isolationsists with no thought to their local environment ;)”