Squatting in Spain remains a challenge, with nearly 79,000 households affected, according to a recent analysis by the Institut Cerdà. Of this amount, 30% are homes occupied in Catalonia.
Although this figure represents a 10% decrease since 2016, the private foundation warns that the phenomenon persists and highlights the emergence of “inquiocupation,” where tenants stop paying after signing a lease.
Presenting the results at the headquarters of the Col-legi d’Economistes de Catalunya in Barcelona, the Institut Cerdà stresses that the reduction in occupancies is due to the decrease in vacant buildings and improvements in the management of housing stock, both by public and private operators, who have implemented preventive measures such as surveillance and security systems.
Squatting” new challenge for squatter housing
“Inquiocupancy” is a disturbing trend that describes those who sign leases, pay the first few monthly payments, but then stop making the payments and remain in the property. This phenomenon suggests a complexity in the relationship between landlords and tenants, generating uncertainty and additional challenges in the rental market.
The Institut Cerdà report notes that the decrease in squatting coincides with a reduction in the number of complaints filed in 2022 for crimes of trespassing and breaking and entering with police forces.
It also highlights that between 75% and 80% of the occupancies are concentrated in properties owned by large holders, such as financial institutions and investment funds.
The authors of the study also mention the growing perception of squatting in public park housing and social economy entities or cooperatives as an effective way to access social renting. This perception challenges official channels and suggests the need to strategically address the supply of social housing to avoid unfavorable situations.
Challenges for management: “Occupying does not entail risks”.
The analysis highlights that squatting has evolved, involving not only vulnerable evicted families, but also mafias and organized groups that monitor movements in specific housing parks.
There is a “widespread feeling that occupying carries virtually no risk,” according to the report, reflecting the need to address public and political perception of the phenomenon.
Despite the decline in employment, the phenomenon persists and poses multifaceted challenges. Polarization of the debate and political use sometimes hinder effective management of the problem.
The need for comprehensive actions, addressing both the causes and consequences of squatting, becomes evident in order to guarantee stability and security in the housing market in Spain and, especially, in Catalonia.
Squatting in Spain and Catalonia is a complex phenomenon that requires continuous attention and comprehensive strategies to address its multiple dimensions.
