LA Post: Handyman evicts squatters by moving in with them

A handyman from California is using a unique strategy to kick squatters out of homes. Flash Shelton, founder of the United Handyman Association, has turned his personal experience of evicting squatters into a service for homeowners facing similar challenges.

Shelton's method involves moving into the occupied property alongside the squatters, effectively becoming a tenant himself. "I can basically become a tenant and live with them until they choose to leave on their own," Shelton told Fox News. He describes his approach as sitting on the couch, opening the fridge, and asserting, "This is my home now."

Shelton also installs security cameras in every room and tells the squatters they're on a reality show. This tactic, he claims, often prompts squatters to leave quickly to avoid being seen.

While Shelton has physically assisted others in California and provided consulting services via Zoom, he cautions against others attempting his methods due to safety concerns. "There are risks involved, and I don't recommend that people do this on their own, but I will help you and give you tools and try to help you do it in a peaceful way" he stated.

Shelton's interest in squatter removal began after he successfully removed individuals occupying his mother’s home. After posting a viral video about it on YouTube, he realized how common this problem is.

“Squatters are ruining lives, and they’re taking homes and homes that people have worked on their whole lives for”, Shelton said.

The handyman's efforts extend beyond individual cases. Shelton has started a petition pushing for federal laws against squatting, and it's already racked up over 4,000 signatures. To help spread the word, he's set up a GoFundMe page too.

While it's illegal to trespass everywhere in the US, squatter laws vary widely, and most cases end up in civil court. Shelton says lawyers, real estate agents, and regular homeowners have supported his tactics.

“I think I have the backing of law enforcement because they wish they could do it,” Shelton said.

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