How to Legally Prevent Trespassing in Abandoned Buildings

Abandoned buildings are often a magnet for drug dealers, vandals and other trespassers. Since intruders entering abandoned buildings can instigate property destruction, arson and other crimes, it is critical for owners to know how to legally prevent trespassing in their abandoned buildings. Follow these steps.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Locks, plywood, chicken wire and other materials to keep trespassers out
• Phone number of local police department
• Building security
• Internet access

Secure the Building

1. Lock every door with a deadbolt and a padlock. Use chicken wire over the windows to further discourage entry.
2. Install an alarm system.
3. An alarm can deter a potential trespasser from entering the building, and if once you learn that an intruder has breached the perimeter, you can act promptly to remove the offender and prevent damage.

Remove Offenders

4. Call the police once you discover trespassers. Tell the officers that a person or group of persons is trespassing on your property and that you want them removed.
5. File a restraining order with the district attorney's office if the same offender enters the building repeatedly.
6. Note how the offender entered the building and rectify the situation. Install bars over windows and doorways until you are ready to again open the building for use.

Follow Through

7. Put your abandoned property up for sale. Local real estate agents can help you find a buyer for an abandoned property and can even offer tips on who can help you secure the building.
8. Seek support from an advocacy group. Groups like Nolo can help you legally prevent trespassers from intruding on your property (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Once a person trespasses, you can call police to remove the offenders, but by then damage may have already been done.
• City councils do not like abandoned buildings, since they contribute to urban blight and attract crime. Hire a live-in property manager or caretaker to keep an eye on the property and deter trespassers.
• ****y traps are illegal in most jurisdictions. Using traps to repel intruders exposes you to lawsuits and criminal charges.