Atlanta-based FirstKey Homes announced today it is working closely with local law enforcement agencies and county judicial systems to curb the growing presence of trespassers illegally occupying rental homes across the region.
Trespassers leave behind a trail of neglect that results in costly repairs and diminished property values. They often illegally access vacant rental properties through a variety of aggressive tactics, including breaking windows, stealing keys from lockboxes, or tampering with locks.
Laws regarding property rights, eviction procedures, and adverse possession vary widely depending on jurisdiction. This poses significant challenges for reclaiming possession of properties occupied by trespassers.
In some instances, trespassers may not be aware that they’re in the home illegally; some scammers have gotten sophisticated enough to gain access to a home and then offer it for rent using fraudulent lease agreements and documentation. To that end, FirstKey Homes works to help prospective residents avoid these rental scams.
In addition to these partnerships, FirstKey Homes frequently conducts inspections of vacant homes, utilizes smart technology, and communicates directly with prospective residents and impacted neighbors to address this critical issue.
The company is also working with its industry trade group, the National Rental Home Council, to strengthen state laws and introduce new legislation to prevent trespassers and intruders, including in Georgia.
