8 Pro Tips for Removing a Homeless Person from Your Property

How to Safely and Effectively Handle Trespassing Incidents on Your Property

Dealing with individuals who refuse to leave your property—whether they are homeless or simply loitering—can be stressful and potentially unsafe. Knowing how to respond calmly, legally, and professionally is essential for protecting yourself, your employees, and your customers.

This guide walks you through the proper steps to manage these situations safely and responsibly.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Keep Your Distance

Your first instinct may be to confront the person immediately, but moving too quickly or aggressively can escalate the situation. Start by assessing the scene from a safe distance.

Keep a Safe Distance

• Observe before engaging. Take a moment to evaluate the individual’s behavior.

• Position yourself behind a barrier—such as a vehicle, counter, or locked door—to maintain safety.

  
  

Assess the Risk

• Look for signs of agitation: pacing, yelling, or erratic behavior.

• Watch their hands for concealed items or objects being handled.

  
  

Remaining calm allows you to make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary confrontation.

Step 2: Watch Their Hands

A person’s hands reveal far more about risk than their face or words. Hands indicate intent and can warn of hidden dangers.

Why Hands Matter

• Clenched fists or sudden movements may signal aggression.

• Hidden hands or reaching into pockets can suggest a possible weapon.

• Erratic movements may indicate intoxication or mental distress.

  
  

If You Notice Red Flags

• Do not approach—step back and reassess.

• Position yourself near an exit or behind a barrier.

• Be ready to escalate the response and call for help if needed.

  
  

Step 3: Communicate Firmly but Respectfully

The way you speak can de-escalate—or escalate—a trespassing incident. Aim for clarity, calmness, and professionalism.

Best Practices for Communication

• Use short, clear instructions.

• Speak in a neutral tone to avoid triggering defensiveness.

• Avoid arguments or debates—repeat your request without engaging emotionally.

  
  

Set Expectations Early

If the person refuses to leave, calmly state that you will contact law enforcement. Present this as a fact, not a threat, and be prepared to follow through.

Step 4: Make It Clear That Authorities Will Be Notified

When someone refuses to leave after being asked, the next step is to contact law enforcement. What you say during that call can significantly impact response speed.

How to Get a Faster Response

• Use the term “trespasser” instead of “homeless.” Trespassing is a criminal matter; homelessness is not.

• Provide clear details: their location, appearance, and behavior.

• Stay calm and factual—dispatcher clarity leads to officer urgency.

  
  

While You Wait for Police

• Avoid further engagement.

• Maintain distance and keep others safe.

• Document the situation with notes or discreet photos if it is safe to do so.

  
  

Step 5: Provide Law Enforcement with Clear Details

Once officers arrive, your ability to communicate clearly helps them resolve the issue quickly and safely.

What Officers Need to Know

• Physical description: clothing, build, height, identifying features.

• Behavior: calm, agitated, threatening, or refusing to leave.

• Timeline: how long they’ve been on the property and where they are located.

  
  

Accurate reporting not only speeds up resolution but also supports future security improvements.

Step 6: Know When to Step Back

Your safety is the top priority. There are times when disengaging is the smartest choice.

Signs to Step Back Immediately

• The individual becomes hostile or threatening.

• They refuse to comply after multiple requests.

• You feel unsafe or unsure.

What to Do Instead

• Create distance and secure a safe position.

• Call law enforcement or security if you haven’t already.

• Allow trained professionals to take over.

  
  

Step 7: Consider Hiring Security for Ongoing Issues

If trespassing becomes a recurring problem, professional security can provide long-term solutions and peace of mind.

When Security May Be Necessary

• You face frequent trespassing incidents.

• Employees or customers feel unsafe.

• You need consistent enforcement of property rules.

  
  

How Professional Security Helps

• On-site officers trained in de-escalation and legal compliance.

• Vehicle patrols and alarm response for deterrence.

• 24/7 video monitoring and documentation.

• Customized security plans tailored to your property’s needs.

  
  

Investing in security ensures that disturbances are handled lawfully, safely, and efficiently.

Step 8: Share This Guide with Your Team

Consistent, informed responses require your entire staff to understand the process.

Strengthen Your Team’s Preparedness

• Print and post this guide in break rooms or offices.

• Review the steps during staff meetings.

• Ensure everyone knows when to engage, when to step back, and when to call for help.

  
  

A well-trained team protects your business, reduces liability, and ensures faster, safer resolutions during trespassing incidents.