In a shocking case from Texas, a homeowner’s trust in a repairman turned into a nightmare when he squatted in her home, causing extensive damage and selling off her furniture.
This incident highlights the growing issue of squatting and the challenges homeowners face in such situations.
The Beginning: Hiring a Repairman
The homeowner, Terri, initially hired the repairman through Thumbtack, a platform that connects individuals with local service professionals. Impressed by his work, The Break-In and Squatting Incident
He sold large appliances and other belongings online and through a garage sale.
Discovery and Immediate Actions
Upon discovering the situation, Terri contacted the police. However, police classified it as a civil issue due to the duration of the repairman’s stay.
Attempting Eviction
Terri tried various methods to remove the squatter. She reached out to his ex-wife and had friends talk to him, but these attempts were unsuccessful.
Texas law posed a significant hurdle, as it does not provide a straightforward process for evicting squatters without a tenant agreement.
Legal Battle and Costs
Eventually, Terri had to hire an attorney to handle the eviction, a process that took approximately seven months.
During this time, the repairman and his associates caused extensive damage, resulting in over $150,000 worth of losses. The house was left in a state of disrepair, described as “completely destroyed.”
Current Situation and Financial Impact
Currently, Terri is living with her mother in Florida, working with insurance to arrange repairs. The financial impact is severe, and Challenges with Squatting Laws
