Prevention of illegal occupations (squatters) through digital access systems

The illegal occupation of properties, better known in Spain as the phenomenon of squatters, has become a growing challenge for property owners, administrators and managers of tourist or residential rentals. Every year, hundreds of owners face intrusions that not only put their investment at risk, but also generate legal costs, administrative complications and loss of peace of mind.

Fortunately, digital technology has evolved to offer effective solutions that reduce the risk of illegal occupations. Digital access systems, such as anti-squatter smart locks, allow total control over who enters a property, when they do so and under what conditions. This article explores how these tools have become strategic allies in preventing illegal occupation, how to implement them correctly and what the specific benefits are for property owners and managers.

What is illegal occupation and why is it a problem?

Illegal occupation occurs when individuals or groups access a property without the owner's consent or a valid rental agreement. This phenomenon not only affects private homes, but also offices, commercial premises and tourist properties.

Among the main problems faced by property owners are:

1. Legal difficulty in recovering the property: Judicial processes in Spain can be lengthy and costly, leaving owners without access for months.
2. Material and financial damages: Occupied properties may suffer damage, vandalism, or accelerated wear.
3. Loss of income: Properties intended for rental or commercial use cease to generate income during occupation.
4. Reputational risk: Owners of tourist rentals or coworking managers may see their reputation affected if they do not guarantee security.

Faced with this scenario, prevention becomes the most efficient strategy. And it is here that digital access systems show their true value.

How digital access systems prevent illegal occupations

Digital access systems, such as smart locks, allow remote management of who enters the property and when, offering a level of control impossible with physical keys. These are some of the ways they help prevent occupations:

1. Centralized access control

With a digital lock, the owner can grant individual permissions to each person who needs access: employees, temporary tenants, or maintenance services. Each entry is recorded, generating a history that can be consulted at any time. This makes it extremely difficult for intruders to gain unauthorized access, as there is no physical key to copy.

2. Temporary permissions

One of the most effective features against illegal occupations is the creation of temporary access. For example, in tourist rental properties, codes can be assigned that expire automatically at the end of the stay. In offices or premises, daily or weekly permissions can be granted. In this way, no one can remain indefinitely in the property without authorization.

3. Real-time alerts

Modern systems allow receiving instant notifications upon any unauthorized access attempt. If someone tries to open the door outside permitted hours or with an invalid code, the owner or administrator receives an immediate notification on their mobile. This allows acting quickly, preventing the situation from worsening.

4. Integration with other security systems

Smart locks can be integrated with cameras, alarms, and home automation systems. For example, if an intrusion attempt is detected, a sound alarm can be activated and images recorded automatically. This combination of technologies significantly increases security and deters potential illegal occupants.

Use cases and practical examples

To understand how digital access systems work in practice, let's look at some examples:

Tourist rental homes

A owner of tourist apartments in Madrid decided to install digital locks in all his properties. Each guest receives a unique code that expires at the end of the stay. In addition, the owner can monitor all entries from his phone. As a result, he has not recorded any attempted illegal occupation in the last three years, and has reduced the need for physical keys, avoiding losses or duplications.

Offices and coworkings

In coworking spaces, it is common for multiple people to share the same property. Through a digital access control system, administrators can grant permissions only to active members and block entries of unregistered people. Unauthorized access attempts are immediately notified, allowing security personnel to intervene before a problem arises.

Vacant properties or those on sale

Even vacant properties are susceptible to illegal occupations. A property for sale or on long-term rental can be protected by smart locks with remote access. The owner can control visits by real estate agents or interested parties, limit hours, and receive alerts of any suspicious activity.

Additional benefits of digital access systems

In addition to preventing illegal occupations, these systems offer other benefits:

• Reduction of operating costs: It is not necessary to change locks or manage duplicate keys.
• Flexibility and convenience: It can be managed from anywhere, without the need to be physically present.
• Detailed access record: Ideal for audits, insurance, and internal control.
• Adaptability: They allow integration with other home automation and security systems, optimizing technological investment.

Considerations for choosing a digital access system

When selecting a smart lock or access control system, owners should consider:

1. Compatibility: That the system works with different mobile devices and platforms.
2. Data security: Codes and records must be encrypted and protected against digital attacks.
3. Multiple opening methods: PIN, NFC, mobile app, proximity cards or integration with voice assistants. This increases flexibility without compromising security.
4. Remote management ease: Allowing access to be assigned and revoked quickly and easily.
5. Integration with alarms and cameras: To create a comprehensive security ecosystem.

Raixer: a comprehensive solution to prevent illegal occupations

Raixer offers digital access systems designed to maximize security and convenience. Its smart locks integrate six opening methods, including PIN code, NFC, mobile app, remote control, integration with voice assistants and proximity cards. This allows owners to manage access in a flexible, secure and efficient manner, minimizing the risk of illegal occupation.

In addition, Raixer allows configuring temporary permissions and real-time alerts, which provides absolute control over the property, whether it's a residence, a coworking or a property for tourist rental. Thanks to these features, preventing squatters is no longer a constant concern for owners.

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The illegal occupation of properties is a growing challenge that can affect both homes and offices and commercial premises. Prevention is the best strategy, and digital access systems represent a key tool to protect properties.

Through centralized control, temporary permissions, real-time alerts and integration with other security systems, smart locks allow owners to manage their properties securely, efficiently and without complications. Companies like Raixer are at the forefront, offering solutions that combine technology, convenience and security, transforming the way we protect our properties against squatters.

Investing in digital access systems not only reduces risks, but also provides peace of mind, optimizes property management and protects long-term investment. In a context where illegal occupation is a real threat, having the right technology is more than an option: it is a necessity.

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