Lawmakers in Harrisburg are working on plans to introduce legislation aimed at codifying Pennsylvania case law to establish more certainty for landlords, law enforcement and homeowners who encounter squatters. 

According to lawmakers, Squatters are a growing problem throughout the nation. Squatters unlawfully take over homes. 

For example, in New York, any occupant who has been in possession of a premises for thirty consecutive days or longer is granted tenancy rights. This means that even if a person did not obtain possession legally from the owner, they would be considered tenants. 

Additionally, home owners would have to pursue formal eviction procedures to remove the squatter from the premises. 

According to Pennsylvania law, squatters would be considered trespassers once the landowner warns them they are not welcome and instructs them to vacate the property. If the squatters remain in any place that they are not licenses or privileged to be, they are considered trespassers. 

Due to the fact the states address squatter concerns differently, lawmakers believe Pennsylvania must establish clear and uniform guidelines. 

The proposed legislation would clarify the legal status of squatters in Pennsylvania and streamline the process of removing them from residential properties.