Bill > S113

This bill establishes a new legal procedure for property owners to quickly remove unauthorized persons (squatters) from residential properties through an expedited process. The bill defines an "unauthorized person" as someone occupying a property without legal claim, rental agreement, or payment, and creates a streamlined method for removal that involves filing a sworn affidavit with a clerk of superior court or magistrate. Under this process, the property owner must provide detailed information proving they are the rightful owner and that the occupant has no legal right to be on the property. Once the affidavit is filed and verified, a law enforcement agency must remove the unauthorized person within 24 hours. The bill includes protections for law enforcement and property owners from liability, provided they act in good faith, and establishes potential civil remedies for wrongful removal. An unauthorized person who is improperly removed could sue for damages, including recovery of the property, actual costs, and potential statutory penalties. The new law will become effective on October 1, 2025, and the Administrative Office of the Courts must develop the required affidavit form by September 30, 2025. The bill aims to provide property owners a faster, more direct legal method to remove squatters compared to traditional eviction processes.

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/S113