What to Do When a Rental Property Next to You Has a Homeless Encampment and the Landlord is Unresponsive

Recently, a situation has arisen where a rental property near me has a homeless encampment in its backyard. I am calling for help and seeking advice on steps to be taken. This article provides guidance on how to handle such an issue effectively, including contacting local law enforcement, code enforcement, and other resources.

Personal Encounter with a Blood Gang Encampment

I am facing a similar situation with a Blood gang encampment right across the fence line. I had contacted Code Enforcement, but their response was unsatisfactory. They did not take effective action. The property manager also failed to address the situation, and there is a new California law requiring the property owner to sign paperwork to remove the encampment.

Negative Impact on Property Value

Some might suggest mind your own business; however, this situation can indeed affect your property value. In the past, people used to complain about black people moving into their neighborhood, arguing that it decreased property values. While such concerns can be valid in some cases, the actual value of your property is determined by the return on your investment, such as the rental income.

Legal Recourse Through Local Authorities

To effectively address the issue of a homeless encampment, it is crucial to contact the appropriate authorities in your local area. Here are some steps you can take:

Contact Local Law Enforcement

Police departments often handle complaints related to illegal living conditions, especially in commercial properties. It is advisable to report the encampment to local law enforcement, especially if it is causing disturbances or safety concerns.

Engage with Code Enforcement

Typically, code enforcement offices have jurisdiction over residential properties and can address issues related to encampments. You should contact your city or county code enforcement office and file a complaint. Be prepared to provide detailed information, including:

The exact location of the encampment and its scale How the encampment is affecting your property (e.g., damage to the fence, pollution of the environment, etc.) What kind of encampment structures are present (e.g., tents, sheds) Anything else that supports the fact that this is a homeless encampment rather than just storage of items

Engage with the Landlord

If you are aware of the landlord's contact information, you should also contact them regarding the encampment. They may need to take legal action against the encampment members to remove them from the property.

Community Response

It is essential to inform your neighbors and community about the situation. Community vigilance can often lead to quicker action from law enforcement and code enforcement.

Ensuring Valid Complaints

When reporting the encampment to authorities, ensure that your complaint is based on valid reasons and not motivated by personal vendetta against a neighbor or because you suspect it is affecting your property value. Authorities typically cannot check areas not visible from the street unless a valid complaint is made.

Conclusion

The situation of a rental property with a homeless encampment is not uncommon, and dealing with it requires thorough documentation and collaboration with local authorities. By taking these steps, you can ensure that the issue is addressed appropriately and that your property remains safe and adequately valued.