FOI request: squatting within the local authority area
Received: 30 September 2025
I am writing to submit a Freedom of Information request regarding squatting within the local authority area. I would like to obtain information on the scale of squatting, council responses, and related enforcement or support measures.1.The number of reported squatting incidents in residential properties within the Local Authority area between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2024, broken down by year.2.The number of reported squatting incidents in commercial/non-residential properties within the borough between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2024, broken down by year.3.Of the reported squatting incidents, the number that resulted in:oPolice intervention;oCouncil enforcement action;oLegal action or court proceedings, broken down by year.4.The number of eviction notices issued to squatters in the borough between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2024, broken down by type of property (residential vs. commercial).5.The number of council-owned or managed properties that were occupied by squatters at any point between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2024, broken down by year.6.Policies, guidance, or procedures the council follows regarding squatting in council-owned or private properties, including steps taken when squatting is reported.7.Any recorded safeguarding concerns or incidents relating to vulnerable individuals (including children or adults at risk) associated with squatting in council properties between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2024.8.Any training or awareness programs provided to council staff or housing officers regarding squatting incidents or responding to squatters.9.The number of properties that had repeat squatting incidents (i.e. more than one squatting event in the same property) between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2024.10.Any anonymised reports or statistical summaries produced by the council regarding squatting incidents and enforcement actions between 2020 and 2024. If the cost of researching and providing this information exceeds the designated budget for such detailed queries, could you please confirm that you will be in a position to provide the information requested in points (1), (2) and (5) above.
Outcome / Documents
- Response (some not held) - application/pdf - Download