A 21-year-old man who is among 30 people squatting in a 10-bedroom Victorian mansion in Highgate, north London, has claimed that English squatters' rights make it easy to occupy empty properties. Jason Ruddick said he entered the home through a broken bathroom window on Boxing Day and would face arrest in his native Latvia for such an act.
Ruddick stated that squatting is a civil matter in England and Wales, not criminal, unless forced entry or other offences occur. The group, which includes people from various countries including the UK, has been living in the property with amenities such as running water, heating, and electricity. Ruddick explained that many occupants lack jobs or benefits and cannot afford rent, leaving them with no alternative but to squat.
The squatters have put up posters warning that anyone attempting to enter the house would be prosecuted. Ruddick noted that once inside, the property is considered in their possession, requiring the owner to obtain a court order for eviction. The group has already received a court order for 19 January, but Ruddick claimed to have identified his next squat, also in Highgate, describing it as 'very nice' and 'better'.
