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Anti-squatter alarm: how to prevent illegal occupation
An anti-squatter alarm provides security and peace of mind for all your properties. Discover what they are, how they work, and how to choose the best one for you.
If you own an empty property—whether it’s a second home, a rental apartment, or a house on the outskirts—you know the fear of illegal occupation is very real. In Spain, the figures show a worrying increase in these cases, especially in tourist and coastal areas. That’s why having an anti-squatter alarm has become a necessity, not just an option. But what exactly is it? How does it work? And how do you choose the right one for you?
What are anti-squatter alarms?
An anti-squatter alarm is a security system specifically designed to detect unauthorised access to properties that are usually unoccupied. Unlike traditional alarms, these systems are built to act in real time and follow immediate response protocols, even if the property has no active electricity or internet connection. Some include cameras, motion sensors, GSM connectivity, and automatic alerts to alarm monitoring centres or even directly to the police.
They are designed to protect properties that are vulnerable to illegal occupation, where response time is critical. In many cases, if action is taken within the first 48 hours after entry, authorities can carry out a fast-track eviction.
How do these alarms work?
When an intrusion is detected, a deterrent siren is activated and an alert is immediately sent to an alarm monitoring centre. Some models also include visual verification through images, which speeds up police intervention. There are also alarms that notify the owner directly via a mobile app.
An anti-squatter alarm works through 24/7 active monitoring. Many systems include infrared sensors, door and window opening detectors, night-vision cameras, and mobile connectivity (GSM or 4G) to send alerts even without WiFi. These alarms are fully autonomous and continue to work even if there is no power or internet in the property.
Advantages of anti-squatter alarms
Installing an anti-squatter alarm gives you peace of mind. Here are some of the key advantages that make them so effective:
Autonomous, with no complicated installation
One of the main advantages of anti-squatter alarms is that they don’t require building work or technicians to start working. Many are ready to use straight out of the box, meaning you can install them yourself in just a few minutes. This is ideal if you want to avoid hassle and extra costs.
Easy to control from your mobile phone
Most of these systems come with mobile apps that allow you to activate or deactivate the alarm remotely. This is especially useful if you’re far away from the property and need real-time control. From your smartphone, you can receive alerts, view images, and manage everything wherever you are.
Immediate alerts to a 24/7 monitoring centre
Anti-squatter alarms are connected to an alarm monitoring centre that operates around the clock. If someone tries to break in, the system automatically alerts the centre, which can verify what’s happening and contact the police within minutes.
Long-lasting battery power
Another major benefit is energy independence. These alarms don’t rely on being plugged into the power grid, so they keep working even if the electricity is cut. Their batteries can last weeks or even months, ensuring constant protection without the need for frequent recharging.
Protection at the most critical moment
Most importantly, these alarms act at the exact moment an occupation attempt occurs. They detect unauthorised access in real time and allow immediate action. If intervention happens within the first few hours, it’s much easier to prevent squatters from settling in and triggering a long, costly legal process.
Portable, for use in different properties
These alarms are perfect if you own multiple properties or change residences frequently. Since they don’t require permanent installation, you can move them from one place to another. This makes them especially practical for owners of second homes or rental properties.
In short, the biggest advantage is that they protect you at the most critical moment: when someone tries to enter illegally. Acting immediately can save you months—or even years—of legal trouble.
Key factors when choosing an anti-squatter alarm
Not all properties or situations are the same. That’s why, when choosing an anti-squatter alarm, it’s important to consider certain factors that make the difference between basic protection and truly effective security.
- Does the property have electricity or WiFi?
This is the first thing to clarify. If the house has no power supply or internet—common in second homes or vacant properties—you need a fully autonomous alarm. Look for systems with long-lasting batteries and mobile connectivity (GSM or 4G) that don’t rely on electricity or WiFi to work or send alerts. - Do you want police intervention?
Some alarms only send notifications to your phone, while others are connected to an alarm monitoring centre (ARC). This option is essential if you want immediate professional response to any intrusion. The monitoring centre can verify the situation and contact the police directly, reducing response times and improving effectiveness. - Is it a large property?
The size of the property also matters. If you own a multi-storey house, a chalet with a garden, or a home with multiple access points, it’s best to choose a modular alarm system. This allows you to add extra sensors, longer-range cameras, or specific detectors for doors and windows, ensuring all vulnerable areas are covered. - Do you prefer no monthly fees?
Some people look for systems without monthly payments, especially if the property isn’t used year-round. There are alarm kits with no fees that simply send alerts to your phone when movement is detected. While they don’t offer direct police intervention, they can be a good option if you’re looking for an affordable, autonomous system, especially when combined with neighbours’ vigilance or connected cameras.
It’s worth noting that there are specific alarm solutions depending on the type of property. At Olin Protect, we explain everything you need to know about alarms for second homes, alarms for villas, and alarms for apartments.
How much does an anti-squatter alarm cost?
Prices vary depending on the model and included services. Basic no-fee kits start at around €150 and are ideal for small apartments or storage rooms. If you prefer a solution with professional monitoring and assistance, prices typically range from €30–€50 per month on a rental basis, including equipment, installation, and police response.
Who needs an anti-squatter alarm?
While any empty property can be vulnerable, there are certain profiles for whom an anti-squatter alarm is not just recommended, but essential.
Second-home owners
Whether by the beach, in the mountains, or in a quiet village, holiday homes are unoccupied most of the year. This makes them an easy target for squatters, especially if they’re far from urban centres. An alarm lets you keep everything under control at all times, even from hundreds of kilometres away.
Owners of chalets in low-surveillance developments
Many single-family homes in residential areas or remote developments don’t have constant surveillance, especially during weekdays. That tranquillity can be a double-edged sword. Installing an alarm with immediate alerts can make all the difference in keeping these homes secure.
Elderly people who no longer live in their former home
Often, older people move in with family, into care facilities, or into more suitable housing. The house they leave behind may look “abandoned” from the outside, making it a target. An alarm prevents unpleasant surprises and protects the property year-round.
Investors with holiday or vacant rental properties
Owners of seasonal rentals know that the periods between tenants are risky. An empty holiday apartment during low season can be tempting for squatters. With an anti-squatter alarm, these vacant periods become much safer.
People with inherited or renovated properties
Inherited homes often remain unoccupied while legal matters are resolved or decisions are made. The same happens during renovations. In both cases, long absences and signs of abandonment increase the risk of occupation. An alarm helps protect the property while its future is decided.
In all these situations, an anti-squatter alarm isn’t a luxury—it’s a basic measure to protect your investment, your assets, and your peace of mind.
What happens if someone occupies a house without an alarm?
Without an anti-squatter alarm, an intrusion can go unnoticed for days or even weeks. This is critical because once squatters manage to settle in and prove residence—even illegally—the eviction process becomes much more complicated. It can take months and involve significant legal costs.
On top of that, damage to the property is often greater: forced doors, broken locks, damaged furniture… And worst of all, the stress of temporarily losing a property that legally belongs to you. That’s why preventing entry in the first place is essential.
Olin Protect: the best anti-squatter solution
At Olin Protect, we offer alarm systems tailored to every need and ready to act from the very first minute. If you already trust Olin for your broadband or mobile services, you benefit from a local provider with real human support, physical stores on the Costa del Sol, and nearby technical assistance.
Acting before it’s too late can save you a lot of time, money, and stress. Protect what’s yours with Olin Protect—the best alarm system on the market.
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