August 23rd 2024.
The issue of pool squatting has been making headlines in France as it poses a serious problem for both property owners and the individuals involved. Just last week, the Metro reported on a case where a teenager ended up paralyzed after a failed dive into a pool. However, what makes this case unique is that the 18-year-old was actually pool squatting at the time of the incident.
For those unfamiliar with the term, a simple Google search may suggest that pool squatting is a form of water-based exercise to tone one's thighs. But in reality, it refers to the act of using a swimming pool without permission, and it has become a widespread trend in France, even becoming a social media "challenge."
In the latest case, the young man and his friends had illegally gained access to a stranger's pool after sneaking into an apartment block in Toulouse. Unfortunately, the consequences were severe, and the teenager decided to take the apartment's management company to court, accusing them of negligence.
According to a French lawyer, property owners are held liable for any damages that occur on their premises, even if the injured person was trespassing. This means that the owners of the apartment block could potentially face legal repercussions for the teenager's injuries.
The owners, who are understandably distressed by the situation, revealed that their pool has been broken into numerous times since it was installed six years ago. They are not the only ones facing this issue as another resident in Toulouse shared her experience of having her pool broken into and damaged, costing her €14,000 in repairs.
Moreover, some pool squatters have even resorted to violence when confronted by property owners. One resident reported being threatened with a knife when they found a couple using their pool without permission. It's a growing concern in southern France, where the warmer climate makes pool squatting a more appealing activity.
In fact, police in France reportedly receive 10-15 complaints a day about pool squatting, and the numbers seem to be on the rise. A public swimming pool in Saint-Lys was recently broken into by a group of young people, and a nearby swimming pool business has also been a target for break-ins.
Local authorities have been inundated with complaints about pool squatting, with one platform receiving over 200 reports in just three months. However, their power to address the issue is limited, as they can only intervene if the individuals are causing a disturbance or blocking access to the property.
In the UK, where outdoor swimming pools are not as common and the climate is cooler, pool squatting is not as prevalent. However, individuals who trespass and cause damage to someone's property can still face criminal charges. So it's important for people to be aware of the consequences and to respect others' property.
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