Why this matters to Florida homeowners
Florida’s HB 621 created a faster process to remove unauthorized occupants from residential property. If the person can’t show a valid right to be there (like a real lease or deed), owners can submit a sworn complaint and request sheriff removal—often much quicker than a traditional eviction. This guide explains the steps, the documents you need, and how to sell the property as-is afterward.
(Works statewide. Local examples included for Tampa Bay / Pinellas County searches.)
What HB 621 actually allows (plain English)
- Lets the sheriff remove squatters from a residential property when legal criteria are met.
- Targets unauthorized occupants (not legitimate tenant disputes).
- Increases penalties for forged leases and certain property damage.
- Designed to be faster than filing a full eviction when it’s true squatting.
Who this applies to (and who it doesn’t)
Applies to:
- Vacant or second homes taken over by strangers.
- Inherited properties, snowbird homes, rentals between tenants, etc.
Does not apply to:
- Legitimate landlord-tenant disputes. If there’s a plausible lease or ongoing tenancy, you’re likely in normal eviction court.
Documents to have ready before you call
- Proof of ownership (recorded deed or county property record printout).
- Government-issued ID for the owner or authorized agent.
- Sworn complaint/affidavit describing the unauthorized occupancy.
- Evidence of forced entry or damage (photos, lock changes, neighbor statements) if available.
(Pro tip for Tampa Bay owners: many sheriff offices provide a downloadable complaint form—having it pre-filled saves time.)
Step-by-step: how removal typically works in Florida
- Confirm it’s squatting, not tenancy. If the person presents a plausible lease, you’ll likely need an eviction.
- Assemble documents. Ownership proof, ID, completed complaint/affidavit, any evidence.
- Contact your sheriff’s office. Ask for the HB 621 squatter removal process and where to submit.
- Sheriff review. They verify ownership and the complaint meets criteria.
- Removal. If approved, officers can direct the unauthorized occupants to leave and restore possession.
- Secure the property. Change locks, board broken entries if needed, schedule a trash-out.
After removal: fastest ways to sell
- Simple Cash Sale (fastest)
No repairs or showings. We buy the home as-is and you pick the closing date. Best if there’s damage, code issues, or you just want certainty. - Quick Clean-Up & Sell
Do a basic trash-out and safety fixes (locks, broken glass, trip hazards) to make the house presentable. This can improve your price without a full renovation. - Traditional Listing with an Agent
Good if the home is financeable and you have time. Expect showings, inspections, repair requests, and a longer timeline, but sometimes a higher final price.
Which path fits you best?
| Option | Timeline | Prep / Effort | Upfront Cost | Deal Risk | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Cash Sale (fastest) | Days (you pick the date) | None — no repairs or showings | $0 (we cover most costs) | Low — no appraisal/financing | Damage, code issues, probate, certainty |
| Quick Clean-Up & Sell | 1–3 weeks to prep, then market | Basic trash-out & safety fixes (locks, glass, debris) | Low (a few hundred–few thousand) | Medium — depends on buyer demand | Slightly better price without full reno |
| Traditional Listing with an Agent | 30–90+ days | Showings, inspections, repair requests | Medium–High (repairs, concessions, commissions) | Higher — financing/appraisal can fall through | Move-in-ready homes; time-flexible sellers |
Rule of thumb: The less time and work you want, the more a certain cash sale makes sense. If you’re willing to do light cleanup, you may squeeze out a bit more. Full retail works best when the home is financeable and you’re not in a hurry.
Common mistakes that slow owners down
- Arguing with the squatter instead of documenting and calling the sheriff.
- No paperwork ready. Lack of deed/ID/affidavit delays action.
- Letting the house sit after removal. Carrying costs (insurance, taxes, utilities) add up—decide your exit quickly.
FAQs: Florida squatter removal (HB 621)
Can the sheriff remove squatters the same day?
Timelines vary by county workload and case details. HB 621 gives clear authority for faster action once documents check out.
What if the squatter shows a “lease”?
If it appears legitimate, you may need a standard eviction. Forged documents don’t protect squatters; penalties apply.
Can I sell immediately after removal?
Yes. Many owners choose an as-is cash sale to avoid repairs and speed up closing.
Does this work outside Tampa Bay/Pinellas?
Yes—HB 621 applies statewide across Florida. We mention local terms (Pinellas, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Tampa) to help nearby owners find this page.
What to do next
- Gather your paperwork (deed, ID, complaint form).
- Call your local sheriff’s office and ask about the HB 621 removal process.
- Decide your exit: cash now, quick cleanup, or retail listing.
Get a real offer you can count on
We buy Florida houses as-is after squatter removal, with code issues, or during probate. No repairs. No fees. Close in days or on your schedule.