Couple Returns to Find Squatters in Their Villa
A British couple were forced out of their holiday home in Spain after squatters moved into the property. The pair arrived at their villa in Menorca at the end of June to find an unfamiliar alarm system fitted and personal items, such as furniture and rugs, missing. They confronted two men—a Spanish man, 55, and his 25-year-old son—before police were called.
Local police allowed the squatters to stay after they presented documents suggesting they had been living in the property, including a receipt for installing the alarm and records of deliveries. The British couple were told to find a hotel nearby, according to the Majorca Daily Bulletin.
Proof of Ownership Secures Eviction
The following day, the couple's lawyer submitted a Land Registry document proving they owned the villa. Local police then detained both squatters, and the couple were allowed to move back in. The squatters' belongings were removed and will be taken by authorities.
Authorities in Spain continue to warn Brits to install security cameras and alarm systems if leaving homes empty. If squatters are caught on CCTV, the case for immediate eviction is much stronger.
Previous Incident: Woman Forced to Sell Home
The latest incident follows the case of 61-year-old Joanne Venet, an actress from Radcliffe, Greater Manchester, who was forced to sell her holiday home near Benidorm after a squatter refused to leave. Ms Venet planned to stay at her three-bedroom villa for a wedding but her troubles began when a tenant stopped paying monthly rent of €1,400 for the €450,000 property.
She eventually paid £4,000 to a specialist eviction service to remove the occupant, who owed €5,600 in unpaid rent and bills. After lengthy legal battles and substantial costs, she sold her home.
