Episode #03 - Oregon landlord tenant law and squatters

Oregon property owners have a new legal tool available to address the issue of squatters on their property. Under Oregon HB 3522, which went into effect on January 1, 2026, landlords are able to utilize the Forcible Entry and Detainer (FED) process to evict squatters. This is a significant shift in landlord-tenant law and procedures, allowing property owners to use a more streamlined method for reclaiming their property. 

Until now, property owners have been required to regain possession from squatters through the much longer court ejectment process, which often takes a year or more and thousands of dollars to complete, depending on many variables.

Historically, the FED process has been used for evicting tenants who violate rental agreements. HB 3522 allows the FED process to be used for situations involving squatters. This is a major change and helps property owners deal with squatters faster and more efficiently. However, there are very specific requirements and limitations of this new law that must be followed. Failure to comply with the strict requirements can lead to penalties for noncompliance and unintended legal consequences.

The landlord tenant laws and the FED process are complex, and a clear understanding of the legal steps involved is important to successfully reaching your goal. If you are a landlord dealing with squatters or have questions about how this new law may apply to your situation you should consult with an experienced Oregon landlord tenant attorney who can help you protect your rights and ensure your goal is met.