On July 1, 2025, Indiana enacted a new law aimed at giving property owners stronger, faster protection against squatters. The change, signed into law as Public Law 191, clarifies the state’s stance on unauthorized occupancy and streamlines the process for removal.
If you own rental property in Indiana, here’s what you need to know.
What Changed?
For the first time, Indiana has legally defined a “squatter” and created a formal process to remove them without having to go through a full eviction process.
Under the new law:
- Squatters are defined as individuals who occupy a property without a lease, legal right, or permission.
- Property owners can submit an affidavit stating the person is unlawfully occupying the property.
- Once submitted, law enforcement is required to remove the squatter within 48 hours, unless there are exceptional circumstances.
This is a major shift from the previous system, where even clear-cut squatting cases often had to go through a lengthy eviction process.
What About Adverse Possession?
The law also eliminates new adverse possession claims filed after June 30, 2025. Historically, someone could claim ownership of a property if they occupied it openly and continuously for a certain period of time (usually 10 years). That’s no longer an option for new claims moving forward.
Any adverse possession claim started before July 1 still falls under the old rules.
What This Means for Property Owners
This law is especially relevant for:
- Owners of vacant or in-transition rental homes
- Landlords managing move-outs, rehabs, or sales
- Anyone who has previously had to deal with unauthorized occupancy
Instead of waiting weeks or longer for the courts to issue an eviction, this new process offers a faster resolution. It’s designed to minimize disruption, reduce legal costs, and protect property rights.
What You Should Do Next
If you own or manage property in Indiana:
- Review your vacancy protocols.
- Ensure your property is secure between tenants.
- Familiarize yourself with the affidavit process in your county.
- Work with your property manager (or local attorney) to understand how the law applies in practice.
Final Thoughts
While Indiana’s new law doesn’t eliminate all the risks of owning rental property, it does give you one more tool to protect your investment—and your peace of mind.
Have questions about how this might apply to your property? We’re happy to talk through it with you.
