Imagine leaving your home empty while you travel or get it ready for sale, and suddenly, an unfamiliar car is parked in your driveway. Someone gets inside, and before you know it, they might even claim to have a lease. This unsettling scenario is what transformed Flash Shelton into the “Squatter Hunter.” I had the chance to chat with Shelton recently on “The CyberGuy Report” podcast about how he got into this line of work and what homeowners can do to fend off unwanted occupants.
Shelton is the star of A&E’s “Squatters,” a show that documents how he and his team assist property owners in reclaiming their homes from unauthorized residents. Throughout our discussion, something that stood out was his frequent emphasis on the use of technology. For instance, having a camera or an alarm system can provide crucial evidence about when someone unlawfully entered a property and how they did it.
How protecting his mom created the ‘Squatter Hunter’
Interestingly, Shelton’s journey didn’t start with the intention of building a business. After his father’s passing in 2019, he moved his mother into his home while getting her empty house ready for sale. Unfortunately, her property was soon taken over by seven other individuals. “I was just trying to be a good son,” Shelton shared and felt he had to act when squatters took advantage of the situation. He reached out to the sheriff, but was told it was now a civil matter and little could be done. Shelton, who knew very little about squatting, simply refused to accept that reply. “I was like, screw that. I’m going to do something about it,” he recalled. This catalyst led him to start investigating how squatting operates and what laws are involved.
His response was quite unconventional. His mother signed a legitimate lease that granted him the right to be in the property. This way, he had proof of his occupancy in case the squatters produced a fake lease of their own. He waited for the invaders to leave, entered the house using his key, and installed cameras and a security system. His mindset was clear: “If they can take a house, I can take a house.” When the original occupants returned, he informed them he had possession and gave them until day’s end to vacate. Their furniture was moved out pretty quickly, and years later, what began as a personal mission for Shelton has morphed into a full-time job and an A&E series.
Why squatting is getting more attention across the US
Squatting is increasingly problematic for homeowners, even if we don’t have a clear national statistic on how often it occurs. The struggle lies in how these cases are categorized. Squatting isn’t recognized as its own category in crime databases, and various jurisdictions might view cases as trespassing, fraud, or landlord-tenant disputes. This inconsistency makes it hard to establish a national figure on the issue.
We do know that legislators are reacting. A report from the National Apartment Association in July 2026 indicated that 28 states now have laws addressing squatting. An additional 25 states have either introduced or are considering legislation this year. The legislation includes faster eviction processes and harsher penalties for unauthorized occupancy. Moreover, documented cases underline just how disruptive squatting can be; the New York City Department of Investigation found unauthorized occupants in 548 vacant NYCHA apartments, leading to multiple arrests over related criminal activity.
While hard figures are hard to come by, the spate of legislative action and real-life cases clearly indicates that unauthorized home takeovers are a significant concern, and homeowners should be proactive about prevention.
The technology lesson Flash wishes he had learned sooner
Despite his many unique tactics as the “Squatter Hunter,” Shelton’s most important piece of advice might be the simplest: install cameras on an empty property before any problems arise. Reflecting on his mother’s experience, he mentioned, “If I had cameras on my mom’s house back then, I wouldn’t be the squatter hunter today.” The entry point had been compromised, and without video evidence, it was impossible to ascertain exactly when and who had accessed the home.
Having that footage could have transformed the scenario entirely. With evidence, Shelton pointed out, he could have presented to authorities, “on this date, at this time, and this is the person.” Modern home technology can indeed make a significant impact in such scenarios. A connected camera can alert owners when someone approaches and record entries, helping to establish a timeline before any conflicting narratives arise about who truly belongs at the property.
Why a fake lease can complicate everything
Complications often arise after someone has already settled in. Shelton explained that seasoned squatters may produce a fake lease to assert they have permission to occupy the property. “They know that if they get into a property and show a lease and create reasonable doubt,” he says, law enforcement may direct property owners to the courts instead of removing the occupant right away.
Again, this is where camera footage becomes invaluable. A document may claim one thing, but video evidence showing someone entering through a forced door can testify to the actual events. Shelton encounters many individuals who are aware of housing regulations and aim to leverage tenant protections to postpone eviction.
Shelton says the goal is tenant rights, not adverse possession
The term “squatters’ rights” can sometimes create confusion, as it encompasses distinct legal concepts. Adverse possession typically requires an individual to occupy a property openly for a duration defined by state law while adhering to specific criteria, which can span several years. However, Shelton notes the disputes he handles typically relate to immediate issues: whether a person can create enough ambiguity to be recognized as a tenant.
“Squatters are doing everything they can to gain tenant rights,” he explained. “They’re not interested in squatter laws or rights. They aim for tenant rights.” This desire explains the varying legal responses among states. Some have established hastier measures for owners claiming unauthorized occupancy, while others are tightening penalties for fraudulent documents.
Some cases go far beyond an empty vacation home
Shelton’s experiences extend beyond mere unauthorized entries. He recounted a particularly distressing case involving an 88-year-old woman in Culver City, California, who had employed a caregiver. After losing the job, the caregiver refused to leave. This scenario eventually led to intervention from social services and presented elements of elder abuse.
This case stayed with him as the homeowner was particularly vulnerable. Shelton has also been involved with high-value properties, recalling one home in Malibu worth approximately $8 million and another in Hollywood Hills. He emphasizes that unauthorized occupants can target any kind of property, and it’s misleading to think a certain profile fits. “They don’t have a look,” he noted. “Squatters are your neighbors.”
Be careful before trying the Squatter Hunter approach yourself
Watching Shelton confront individuals might make for entertaining television, but replicating those actions in real life could lead to danger. Laws concerning trespassing, tenancy, and removal vary by state. If you find someone inside your property, it’s best to call law enforcement and record what you can safely. Keep camera footage, save all records showing when the property was vacant, and document anyone authorized to be present. If someone claims tenant status, a lawyer familiar with local property regulations can assist in determining the next steps.
Shelton’s extensive experience informs his engagements. He also possesses skills in de-escalation, highlighting that the confrontations depicted on TV often omit the risks involved. This is markedly different from a homeowner entering a house alone to face an unknown person.
Flash Shelton ultimately wants to put himself out of business
Increased awareness around squatting has turned Shelton into a figure on television, leading to more cases than he can manage. However, he insists his long-term aim is rather the opposite. “There are no shortage of cases,” he mentioned, but added, “I ultimately want to change these laws and put myself out of business.”
While that goal is in the future, his key message for homeowners is to pay attention early. A camera can notify you of someone’s arrival. An alarm can indicate a door’s opening, and a neighbor can alert you if a moving truck shows up unexpectedly. Once an individual claims residency, the situation can get significantly more complex.
Flash Shelton’s tips to help protect your home from squatters
During our conversation, I repeatedly asked Shelton a pressing question many homeowners probably have: What should I do to prevent this from happening? His guidance revolves around making a vacant property easier to monitor while minimizing signs that no one is present.
1) Put cameras around the property
Start by placing cameras at key entry points. Shelton appreciates that today’s systems allow homeowners to check in on their property remotely, stating, “You can be anywhere in the world” while keeping tabs on what goes on at home from your phone. He advises looking for motion alerts and person detection features, along with night vision capabilities. Equally important is understanding how recordings are stored—if an incident happens, ensure you can save important clips before they are deleted due to cloud storage limits.
2) Ensure your security works when the power goes out
A camera becomes less effective if the electricity fails. Shelton suggests using battery-powered cameras since properties aren’t always equipped with constant electricity or internet. Some batteries can keep cameras operational for lengthy periods, depending on the model and usage frequency. It’s also wise to check the backup systems of any alarm. Before leaving a property empty, ensure that all your security systems are current and operational.
3) Use lights to make the home appear occupied
Timers for indoor lights and solar-powered exterior lights can be beneficial. Shelton prefers rechargeable lights with battery backup to prevent the house from being completely dark during an outage. Smart plugs or connected bulbs allow for remote lighting adjustments to avoid signaling that the property has been left unattended.
4) Bring a trusted neighbor into the loop
One of Shelton’s practical recommendations comes at no cost. Inform trusted neighbors about your property’s vacant status and clarify who, if anyone, is authorized to enter. As Shelton puts it, “Your neighbors don’t want you to have a squatter either.” They can help keep an eye out for any unusual activity, such as unfamiliar vehicles or furniture being moved in. He relied on a neighbor for help with his mother’s property that lacked Wi-Fi, allowing him to use their connection for his camera.
5) Secure your mailbox
Unauthorized individuals may take note of overflowing mailboxes, indicating neglect. Shelton cautioned against allowing squatters to receive mail at the address, as this could serve as evidence of residency. “Ensure you have a mailbox that can be locked,” he advised, and while traveling, arrange for your mail to be held or picked up. Be vigilant about any mail that arrives for unfamiliar names at properties that should be vacant.
6) Ask about no-trespassing registration
While it may seem obvious, putting up no-trespassing signs should be coupled with checking if local law enforcement offers a way to document such postings. Some sheriff’s departments allow homeowners to file forms that officially note a property has been designated against trespassing. This is significant because someone might just take down the sign; having a formal record can help substantiate the owner’s stance.
7) Make an empty house look less empty
Think about the visual clues visible from the street. Lights on timers, maintaining the yard, and not leaving deliveries outside can help. If feasible, leave a vehicle in the driveway or ask a trusted friend to park there while you’re away. Although none of this guarantees someone will refrain from entering, it makes the property appear less conspicuous to would-be squatters.
8) Check everything before leaving for vacation
If you plan to be away for an extended period, Shelton suggests conducting a final security check. Ensure your cameras and alarm are functional and that everything is up-to-date. Test camera batteries and verify that motion alerts reach your phone. Also, consider what happens if there’s a power outage; seek out equipment with battery backup as much as possible.
9) Watch your home title too
While squatters do not automatically gain legal title to a property, homeowners should also be vigilant about potential home title fraud. Criminals may use fraudulent documents or stolen identities to alter property records or acquire financing related to a home.
Monitoring property records can act as an additional safety net. Home title monitoring services can notify you of changes to your property records, like new ownership or lenders. While this won’t prevent someone from entering your home, it can serve as an early alert to investigate potentially fraudulent activities.
Kurt’s key takeaways
Flash Shelton’s experiences illustrate just how quickly an empty property can become someone else’s opportunity. A crucial takeaway from his story is the importance of early detection. He wishes he had cameras running when unauthorized individuals first invaded his mother’s home. The faster you realize someone has accessed your property, the sooner you can contact the proper authorities and preserve crucial evidence. And don’t overlook more straightforward, low-tech solutions—like keeping trusted neighbors informed or monitoring your mailbox. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with local laws as they can vary significantly from place to place. You can listen to my full conversation with Flash Shelton on The CyberGuy Report podcast.
Do you think states need to simplify the removal of squatters, or could stricter laws be overly punitive? Share your thoughts with us at CyberGuy.com.
