West Virginia lawmakers target squatters with new property protection amendments

A new legislative measure aimed at addressing the growing issue of squatting in West Virginia homes has gained traction in the Senate Judiciary Committee. During a session on March 24, 2025, committee members discussed a proposed amendment that would simplify the process for property owners to reclaim their homes from unauthorized occupants.

The proposed law would allow law enforcement to remove individuals who unlawfully occupy a dwelling without the owner's permission. "This would give the opportunity to arrest them, pull them out of that house, and let the rightful owner into his or her property," explained one committee member, emphasizing the straightforward nature of the legislation. To prove the crime, it would only need to be established that the dwelling is not owned by the occupant and that they lack permission to be there.

The committee also made specific amendments to the language of the bill, including changing references from "outhouse" to "outbuilding," which reflects a more modern understanding of property types involved in such disputes. These changes were adopted unanimously, indicating strong support for the bill among committee members.

As discussions continue, the focus remains on ensuring that property rights are protected and that homeowners can reclaim their properties from those who occupy them without consent. The committee's actions signal a proactive approach to a pressing issue that has been increasingly reported across the state. The next steps will involve further deliberation and potential voting in the full Senate, as lawmakers aim to finalize the legislation.