In 2025, a Baltimore homeowner discovered a nightmare that would cost her tens of thousands of dollars and lock her out of her own property for over a year. What started as a routine tenant vacancy turned into a squatter invasion that exposed critical gaps in landlord protections and eviction laws. This is her story, and what every property owner needs to know about squatter rights, eviction delays, and property protection.
The Vacancy That Led to Disaster
Jennifer, a Baltimore homeowner, had rented her three-bedroom house to a long-term tenant for five years. The arrangement was stable, and rent was paid reliably. But in early 2025, the tenant gave notice and moved out. Jennifer expected to quickly find a new tenant and continue her rental income.
What she didn’t expect was that squatters would move into her vacant property within days.
Squatters Move In and Claim Tenant Rights
Within a week of the legitimate tenant’s departure, Jennifer discovered unauthorized occupants living in her home. When she confronted them, they refused to leave, claiming they had “tenant rights” under Maryland law. The squatters argued that since they were occupying the property, they were entitled to legal protections afforded to tenants.
Jennifer was shocked. She owned the property outright, had never agreed to rent to these individuals, and they had no lease or payment arrangement. Yet the squatters insisted they had rights and could not be removed without a formal eviction process.
The Long and Costly Eviction Battle
Jennifer immediately contacted a lawyer and filed for eviction. But Maryland’s eviction laws, designed to protect legitimate tenants, became a shield for the squatters. The legal process moved slowly, with multiple court dates, continuances, and delays.
The squatters hired their own lawyer and contested the eviction at every step. They filed motions, requested extensions, and used every legal tactic available. Each court appearance cost Jennifer money in legal fees. Each delay meant more time the squatters remained in her home, causing additional damage.
The eviction process, which should have taken weeks, dragged on for over a year. Throughout this ordeal, Jennifer was locked out of her own property. She couldn’t access her home, couldn’t make repairs, and couldn’t stop the squatters from destroying it.
The Devastating Property Damage
While Jennifer fought in court, the squatters systematically destroyed her home. When she finally regained access after the eviction was granted, the damage was catastrophic:
- Plumbing destroyed: Toilets were ripped out and removed entirely
- Walls damaged: Holes punched through drywall in multiple rooms
- Flooring ruined: Carpet and hardwood floors were stained, torn, and partially removed
- Appliances gone: Kitchen appliances were removed or destroyed
- Trash and waste: The home was filled with garbage, debris, and biohazard waste
- Utilities damaged: Wiring and pipes were tampered with or removed
- Windows broken: Multiple windows were shattered or boarded up
The Financial Toll
- Unpaid rent (14+ months): $21,000
- Legal fees and court costs: $8,500
- Property damage repairs: $35,000+
- Lost rental income during repairs: $9,000
- Utilities and property taxes (unpaid during vacancy): $4,200
- Total loss: Nearly $80,000
Her homeowner’s insurance refused to cover most of the damage, arguing that squatter-related losses and intentional destruction were not covered under standard policies. Jennifer was left to absorb the entire financial burden herself.
How Squatters Exploit Tenant Protections
The Baltimore case reveals a troubling loophole in tenant protection laws. Squatters—individuals with no legal right to occupy a property—can exploit laws designed to protect legitimate tenants. Here’s how the scam works:
- Adverse Possession Claims: Squatters argue they have a legal right to occupy the property through “adverse possession.”
- Tenant-Like Protections: Once squatters claim occupancy, they may be entitled to formal eviction proceedings.
- Slow Court Systems: Eviction cases are often backlogged, giving squatters months or years to remain in the property.
- Lawyer Tactics: Squatters who hire lawyers can drag out proceedings indefinitely.
- Property Damage: With no financial stake, squatters have little incentive to maintain the home.
Warning Signs and Prevention Strategies
- Secure vacant properties immediately: Board up windows, install cameras, post “No Trespassing” signs.
- Act quickly if you discover squatters: Contact law enforcement and a landlord-tenant attorney immediately.
- Document everything: Photos, videos, and records of all communications and damage.
- Know your state’s laws: Understand adverse possession and eviction timelines.
- Maintain insurance coverage: Ask about squatter-related coverage options.
- Use professional property management: For monitoring and rapid response.
- Consider rapid re-renting: Don’t leave homes vacant for long periods.
The Bigger Picture: Squatter Rights Are Growing
Jennifer’s case is not unique. Squatter invasions are increasingly common in U.S. cities. The problem is compounded by understaffed police, overloaded courts, and tenant protection laws that inadvertently shield squatters.
Conclusion: Landlords Must Be Proactive
Jennifer’s $80,000 loss and year-long legal battle could have been prevented with proper security, rapid response, and legal action. Her story is a stark reminder that landlords cannot afford to be passive about property protection.
Want more resources, legal guidance, and landlord protections? Join AAOL today for expert advice on squatter prevention, eviction procedures, and landlord rights.
Key Takeaways
- Secure vacant properties immediately
- Act fast if you discover squatters
- Document all damage and keep detailed records
- Understand your state’s adverse possession and eviction laws
- Consider professional property management for vacant homes
- Maintain comprehensive insurance coverage
- Never leave properties vacant for extended periods
- Consult with a landlord-tenant attorney to protect your interests
Sources: Baltimore Circuit Court Records, Maryland Eviction Laws, National Landlord Association, Property Management Industry Reports, American Association of Landlords (AAOL)
