For absentee owners, “squatter risk” is really a visibility problem: empty properties with unclear boundaries and no local presence are easier targets. You reduce risk by making your ownership obvious, your perimeter maintained, and your response time fast.
Note: This is general information, not legal advice. For property-specific guidance, speak with a qualified Costa Rican attorney.
Key takeaways
- Title is critical, but day-to-day possession is what deters issues.
- Presence beats cameras: inspections, maintenance, and a known local point person matter.
- Your goal is early detection and immediate response before a situation escalates.
Possession vs. ownership (in plain English)
Owning a property on paper is not the same as actively occupying and maintaining it. In practice, the safest posture is to demonstrate continuous care and control:
- The property is visited regularly
- The grounds are maintained
- Boundaries and access are clear
- Issues are addressed quickly
A practical prevention checklist
- Perimeter clarity: fences, markers, signage where appropriate.
- Routine inspections: scheduled walkthroughs and photo logs.
- Active maintenance: landscaping, repairs, lighting, and visible upkeep.
- Access control: gates, lock systems, and a documented key policy.
- Rapid response plan: who calls legal counsel, who calls local authorities, and what evidence is retained.
What “boots on the ground” actually looks like
For managed properties, Signature Collection implements an on-the-ground cadence:
- Weekly perimeter checks (with documentation)
- Maintenance activity that signals active ownership
- Escalation pathways that prioritize speed and paperwork discipline
FAQ
Are cameras enough?
Cameras help, but they don’t replace physical presence, signage, and clear boundaries.
What’s the biggest risk factor?
Long periods of vacancy with no inspections and unclear perimeter control.
What should I do if I suspect trespassing?
Act immediately. The longer an issue sits, the harder it can become to resolve cleanly.
Next step
If you own (or are buying) a home you won’t occupy full-time, schedule a preventive security review with our team: Contact.