INVESTOR INTELLIGENCE
Steps to follow when tragedy strikes
When a property owner or lawful occupier becomes aware of any intrusion , they need to act as swiftly as possible and inform the SAPS to arrest any trespassers before they are able to erect any structures or enter and unlawfully occupy the premises .
“ These syndicates often hire expensive lawyers to represent them in court , which would indicate that this is a very rewarding financial business .”
formal charge of trespassing should be laid at the nearest police station and the perpetrators should be apprehended as a matter of urgency . If an official refuses to
A assist in opening a docket , ask for the officer on duty . If the officer also declines , escalate the matter to the station commander . If the station commander also neglects to help , your next course of action will be to approach a competent lawyer to urgently seek legal recourse by obtaining the necessary eviction order to instruct and authorise both the sheriff and local police to evict any unlawful occupiers from the property .
If you fail to act timeously , the unlawful occupiers will be protected under the PIE Act , which will result in prolonged and expensive litigation . With the correct paper trail and proof that the owner or legal occupier did everything in his / her power to acquire the assistance of the SAPS and thereafter brought an urgent application against the illegal occupiers without delay , the possibility might exist for a successful claim against the SAPS for the costs so incurred .
Conclusion
Prevention is better than cure : being in a position to prevent your property from being invaded
86 OCT 2022 SA Real Estate Investor Magazine