Bill aims to squeeze out squatters

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Imagine someone living in your home against your will.

That is a reality for some homeowners, but they can’t do anything about it.

A new bill is heading to the governor that could give them more power to kick people out.

A squatter is an annoying and costly surprise that a growing number of property owners are running into.

On Friday afternoon, the North Carolina Legislature came to the aid of victims of squatters by making it easier for the Register of Deeds to put the brakes on questionable transactions.

Davidson Mayor Rusty Knox fell victim to squatters earlier this year.

His parents home was on sale when the squatters decided to settle in.

[I'll felt violated': Davidson mayor fights back against house squatters]

The intruders produced a phony bill of sale, which claimed they bought the $2 million home for $108,000.

"Indicators like that will allow the Register of Deeds now to put up a red flag and say, ‘Wait, we need to check on this a little bit more,’" Knox said.

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Fake transactions now could cost homeowners up to $5,000 in legal fees to clear the record.

"It was so easy for them to forge my brother’s name to have a fictitious notary seal," Knox said.

The bill will be at the governor’s office on July 21.

Cox Media Group