Squatters, Evictions, and Adverse Possession in Ohio

As a real estate investor in Ohio, you know that not every property deal is smooth sailing. Squatters, evictions, and even claims of adverse possession can pop up, creating legal headaches, financial stress, and major inconveniences. That’s why it’s so important to know how to protect your investment right from the start from adverse possession. By understanding the rules, following the right steps, and teaming up with a professional partner like Next Door Properties, you can avoid many of these problems and keep your portfolio on track.

Below are the top 10 things you should know about squatters, evictions, and adverse possession in Ohio. We’ll also show you how Next Door Properties can help you find great deals while keeping your investments safe.

1. Squatters: Who Are They and Why Do They Matter?

Squatters are people who live on your property without your permission. They might move into an empty home or a commercial building and stay there, often refusing to pay rent. Besides the obvious stress, squatters can damage your property and make it harder to sell or rent out. Laws about removing squatters vary by location, so it’s important to know your local regulations and act quickly if you notice an adverse possession problem.

2. Evictions: Follow the Rules Carefully

Evicting a tenant isn’t as simple as telling them to leave. Different states have different laws about the notice and process you must follow. In Ohio, you typically need to give a 30-day notice to the tenant before filing an eviction lawsuit. Make sure you understand these requirements. If you don’t follow the rules, you could face costly delays and legal troubles.

3. Adverse Possession: Long-Term Occupation Can Lead to Ownership

Adverse possession happens when someone uses your property openly and continuously for a long period—often around 15 years—without your permission. If they meet all the legal conditions, they can actually gain ownership rights. Regularly checking on your properties and dealing with unauthorized occupants right away will help you avoid this problem.

4. Protecting Your Investment

Protecting your investment goes beyond simply knowing the laws—it’s about taking proactive steps to prevent problems from happening in the first place. For example, regularly inspecting your property, maintaining strong tenant screening procedures, and keeping clear, detailed records can all reduce the chances that you’ll face squatting, eviction complications, or adverse possession claims down the line. You’ll also want to stay ahead of any changes in local and state regulations and be prepared to adjust your strategies accordingly. At Next Door Properties, we offer guidance on all these fronts. Our team keeps up-to-date on the latest rules, has experience dealing with challenging tenant situations, and can recommend best practices to keep your property safe and profitable. By working closely with us, you’ll have a trusted resource to lean on whenever issues arise, ensuring you don’t have to handle tough situations alone.

5. Do Your Research Before You Buy

Before purchasing any property, perform a thorough check—also known as due diligence. Look into the property’s past, the neighborhood, and any legal issues it might have. Our team at Next Door Properties can help you uncover hidden risks so you can invest with confidence.

6. Getting Legal Help

When adverse possession troubles surface—like a tenant who refuses to leave, a squatter who claims they have the right to stay, or questions about who actually owns a piece of land—you need someone who can navigate the legal system with confidence. Hiring an experienced real estate attorney isn’t just about putting out fires; it’s about preventing them. A good attorney can review your lease agreements, help you draft legal documents that clearly define your rights, and provide advice on how to respond when a dispute flares up. They can also guide you through the courtroom process, should it come to that, and represent your interests with professionalism and skill. At Next Door Properties, we connect you with qualified, reputable attorneys who know the local courts, judges, and legal processes. That means you can resolve problems faster, cut through red tape, and get back to focusing on your investment goals.

7. Hire a Property Management Company

A good property manager watches over your investment, making sure it’s well-maintained and that tenants follow the rules. They can handle everything from collecting rent to keeping an eye out for potential squatters. We can help you find a trustworthy management company that will keep your property secure.

8. Know Your Local Zoning Laws

Zoning laws determine how you can use your property, from renting it out to making renovations. By understanding these rules, you can avoid fines, legal issues, and missed opportunities. Our team at Next Door Properties stays current on local regulations and can help you navigate these rules.

9. Finding the Best Deals

Securing a solid property at the right price is one of the best ways to protect yourself from future headaches. A property acquired for a reasonable cost in a stable, growing neighborhood is less likely to attract the kind of trouble that leads to evictions or squatting in the first place. By identifying undervalued properties or those poised for appreciation, you can build a portfolio that balances immediate income with long-term growth. At Next Door Properties, we use market data, local insights, and our network of industry contacts to help you discover promising deals that meet your criteria. We’ll guide you through the negotiation and purchasing process, ensuring you get a fair deal and a property that stands on solid ground. This approach not only boosts your potential profit but also reduces the stress and uncertainty that can come with real estate investing.

10. Staying Informed

The real estate landscape is always shifting. Neighborhoods change, new laws are passed, tenant preferences evolve, and economic conditions can rise and fall. As an investor, your ability to adapt to these changes is what keeps your portfolio thriving. Staying informed means doing more than reading the occasional headline—it means tracking market data, analyzing trends, and understanding how local events might affect property values or rental demand. At Next Door Properties, we keep our finger on the pulse of the local market so you don’t have to. We’ll share insights that help you pick the best time to buy, sell, or hold. With us by your side, you’ll always know if there’s a new development coming to the area, if a law might shift the rental market, or if a formerly overlooked neighborhood is now the next big thing. Armed with this knowledge, you can make confident, timely decisions that support long-term success.

Real estate investors in Ohio need to understand the laws and regulations surrounding squatters, evictions, and adverse possession. It’s important to work with a team of professionals who can help you protect your investment and find the right deals for your portfolio. At Next Door Properties, we have the experience and knowledge necessary to help you navigate these complex issues and make informed investment decisions. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your real estate investment goals. (860) 398-4472