We have recently been informed that as of the 1st September 2012 squatting in residential properties will become a criminal offence. Here’s a statement from an ASS member:
‘The new law will be coming into force on the 1st September (sorry for any confusion) and we need to be prepared. You will not be committing an offence if you are squatting in non-residential property, if you have a licence or tenancy, if you are not living in the property or intending to live there (just visiting).
Make sure you are prepared to explain why the new law does not cover your circumstances.’
We want to emphasise that we need to organise and be prepared for this law change. Our advice to those squatting in residential properties is as follows:
1. If you are ‘just visiting’ people who are squatting in residential properties then this law does not apply to you. The police will need to prove that you were living or intending to live in the property in order for you to be arrested. It should be o.k for you to gather your friends possessions in case of eviction, just explain to the police that you are doing so.
2. Have a back up plan and be ready. Make sure your possessions are packed and ready to be moved. Start looking now for a place to move to. Join up with other crews and support each other. This will be vital for the survival of the squatting community.
Please do get in contact if you need any further support/advice. Call us on 07591 415860. We are usually contactable 24/7 although if your call is not urgent then call during the daytime. If no credit text/miss call us and we’ll get back to you asap.
Solidarity to all.