Squatting law could be extended to commercial property

The Ministry of Justice is considering extending the squatting law so it covers commercial properties as well as residential premises. Justice Secretary Chris Grayling will write to MPs asking for evidence of just how many company premises, pubs and shops have been targeted by squatters. He wants a clear picture before making a decision on whether to extend the existing law.

Squatting in residential properties was criminalised last summer, with offenders facing a maximum term of six months in prison, a £5,000 fine, or both. A number of commercial properties in London have been invaded by squatters in recent times, a spate of incidents which has led to calls for a clause to be put in a justice Bill.

British Property Federation chief executive Liz Peace added: “It seems illogical to make it a criminal offence for one sort of property but not for all property.”

A Ministry of Justice spokesman said: “We recognise that squatting can also have a serious impact on non–residential property owners and we are continuing to monitor this situation closely.”

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