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HB 295

Expedite unauthorized occupant removal; prohibit fraudulent deeds

136th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Thad Claggett and 11 co-sponsors

Ohio bill accelerates eviction of unauthorized occupants and criminalizes fraudulent property deed filing to protect owner rights and title security.

Referred to committee
#housingandrealproperty
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Bill Summary · HB 295

Legislative bill overview

HB 295 streamlines the legal process for removing unauthorized occupants from properties and establishes penalties for fraudulent property deed filing. The bill aims to address squatting and deed fraud—situations where individuals unlawfully occupy properties or file false ownership documents—by expediting court procedures and creating new criminal offenses.

Why is this important

Property owners facing unauthorized occupancy currently navigate lengthy eviction processes, during which squatters may claim adverse possession rights or cause property damage. Deed fraud undermines property title security and can entrap legitimate buyers in legal disputes. Expediting these removals and penalizing fraudulent filings protects property rights and reduces the financial burden on owners dealing with these disputes.

Potential points of contention

  • Due process concerns: Expedited removal procedures may limit defendants' time to mount legal defenses or prove legitimate occupancy claims, raising fairness questions
  • Adverse possession implications: The bill may inadvertently affect long-standing adverse possession doctrine, which traditionally allows occupants meeting specific legal criteria to gain ownership over time
  • Definition ambiguity: Without clear statutory definitions, "unauthorized occupant" and "fraudulent deeds" could be interpreted broadly, potentially affecting legitimate property disputes or title correction processes

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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