Illinois Squatters Rights in 2025: Essential Changes
Dealing with squatters is one of the most frustrating experiences for a property owner. As of 2025, Illinois has updated its laws regarding squatters’ rights, making it crucial for landlords to understand the changes and their impact. Whether you're actively managing rental properties or considering selling to avoid legal hassles, this guide will break down the key updates in clear, practical terms.
Understanding Squatters Rights Before 2025
Squatters’ rights, legally known as adverse possession, allow individuals to claim property ownership if they meet certain conditions over time. Before 2025, Illinois law required squatters to meet the following criteria:
Continuous possession for 20 years without interruption.
Open and notorious occupation, meaning they weren’t hiding their presence.
Exclusive use, meaning no one else, including the owner, was using the property.
Acting as the owner, including making repairs and living on the property.
Paying property taxes, proving long-term investment in the property.
These laws aimed to prevent property neglect while giving long-term occupants a chance to claim abandoned properties. However, recent legislative changes have adjusted these rules, affecting how landlords and squatters approach property claims.
Key Changes to Squatters Rights in Illinois (2025)
Illinois lawmakers have made significant updates to adverse possession laws in 2025. The most notable changes include:
Reduced Possession Period – Squatters now need only 15 years (instead of 20) of continuous occupancy to claim ownership.
Stricter Proof of Occupancy – Squatters must provide more substantial evidence, such as utility bills, maintenance records, and affidavits from neighbors.
Property Maintenance Requirements – Squatters must show they have actively maintained and improved the property.
Color of Title Favorability – Squatters with a legal document (even if flawed) suggesting ownership now has a stronger claim.
Tax Payment Verification – Courts now require clear proof of long-term tax payments when squatters file claims.
These changes are designed to add more legal structure while ensuring landlords have a fair chance to reclaim their property.
Current Legal Process for Squatters in Illinois
The process for squatters to claim adverse possession has become more structured:
Gathering Evidence – Squatters must collect proof of continuous occupancy, including utility bills and home improvements.
Filing a Legal Claim – They must submit a petition in court with supporting documents.
Court Review – Judges evaluate whether the squatter meets the new legal standards.
Property Tax Verification – Squatters must provide records of long-term tax payments.
Possible Counterclaims – Property owners can dispute claims by proving interrupted occupancy or tax non-payment.
Evicting Squatters Under the 2025 Law
If squatters have taken over your property, follow these steps to remove them legally:
File an Official Complaint – You must formally notify local authorities and initiate a legal eviction process.
Provide Evidence of Ownership – Documentation proving ownership strengthens your case.
Present a Clear Eviction Notice – Ensure squatters receive written notice to vacate.
Seek Legal Assistance – An attorney can guide you through the process, preventing squatters from delaying the eviction.
Obtain a Court Order – If squatters refuse to leave, the court may issue a ruling to have them removed by law enforcement.
The Impact of Squatters’ Rights on Property Values
Changes to squatters’ rights can have a ripple effect on the real estate market:
Property Values – Owners may see fluctuations in property values due to perceived risks associated with squatter claims.
Selling Challenges – Potential buyers may hesitate to invest in properties with squatter issues.
Community Tensions – Increased awareness of squatters’ rights may create conflicts between owners and long-term occupants.
For landlords considering selling, these changes highlight the importance of properly managing their properties to avoid devaluation.
Navigating Squatters Rights in Illinois Moving Forward
For landlords, the 2025 updates to squatters’ rights mean increased vigilance is necessary. If you're struggling with squatter issues or considering selling to avoid future risks, staying informed is key.
Key Takeaways:
Squatters now need 15 years instead of 20 to claim ownership.
More evidence of occupancy and tax payments is required.
Proactive property management prevents unwanted claims.
Legal eviction requires a structured process to succeed.
By understanding these laws and taking preventative measures, landlords can protect their investments and navigate Illinois’ evolving property landscape with confidence.
