Spain property owners report extortion by squatters

Property owners in Spain are reporting a rise in squatting incidents involving extortion demands. In Vigo, several owners of vacation rentals booked through platforms like Airbnb have reported guests refusing to leave after their stays ended. These occupants have reportedly demanded payments ranging from 3,000 to over 10,000 euros to vacate the premises. At least ten cases have been identified, with some occupants remaining in properties for as long as eight months.

In Castellón, a family is struggling to recover a home occupied since July. The occupants claimed to have a rental contract when confronted by the Guardia Civil, though the family disputes this. The occupants reportedly demanded 8,000 euros to leave. In both regions, owners express concern that these actions may be organized, noting that higher ransom amounts are sometimes demanded from companies compared to individual owners. Recovering these properties often requires lengthy judicial proceedings.