Update on Senate Bill 55
On August 6, North Carolina’s Governor Josh Stein took a significant step to protect landlord rights by signing Senate Bill 55, commonly called “the Squatter’s Bill,” into law. This bill was introduced after Governor Stein vetoed House Bill 96, which contained unrelated provisions regarding puppy mills. Due to these concerns, Senate Bill 55 was created to address property rights more effectively. This legislative change marks a new chapter in the state’s legal landscape, reflecting the complexities and evolving priorities in property rights issues.
Earlier this afternoon, June 26th, 2025, the North Carolina General Assembly passed House Bill 96, “Expedited Removal of Unauthorized Persons.” This legislation will create a new, streamlined process for property owners who need to remove non-tenant occupiers (commonly referred to as “squatters”) from their rental properties. The bill addresses growing concerns about property misuse, extended squatter stays, and delays in eviction proceedings, particularly those that burden commercial and residential landlords.
Assuming the governor does not veto it, this law will take effect on Dec. 1. It will significantly alter how quickly and under what circumstances law enforcement may remove individuals who are not lawfully present on private property. While the law promises faster remedies, it also requires the filing and service of lawsuits, along with mandatory court hearings, before the occupying persons would be subject to removal as trespassers. Careful attention to these as-yet untested legal processes and procedures will be critical in order to avoid undue risk exposure.
Here’s what our clients need to know:
HB 96 empowers property owners – or authorized agents – to request immediate removal of unauthorized persons from their property by first initiating a lawsuit with the Court, followed by an expedited hearing and hopefully the issuance of a court Order mandating the squatters to remove themselves within 4 hours after being served with the Court’s Order by the Sheriff. This process can be used for removal from land, residences, or commercial structures where the individual has no lawful right to remain.
What this (hopefully will) mean for Property Owners:
1.) Faster Resolutions to “squatter” situations
2.) Reduced Property Risk due to expedited timelines; and
3.) Streamlined/Clarified Process where none currently exists.
What’s Next?
HB 96 was amended by the Senate on June 25, 2025. It returned to the House for a final concurrence vote today (which passed) and now heads to the Governor’s desk. He has 10 more days to veto the bill, or else it will become law. We will continue to monitor the bill’s progress and provide updates on any changes that could affect your rights or obligations.
