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Malibu real estate agent is sounding the alarm about a growing problem of serial squatting in California, particularly after the recent Los Angeles wildfires. Liz Benichou, a lifelong resident and agent, warned that the situation could worsen due to the displacement caused by the fires.

    Benichou described how Ellie Mae McNulty, an actor and screenwriter, allegedly swindled dozens of Malibu homeowners over the last decade by charming her way into their lives before becoming a nightmare roommate. "She's a predator who finds people weak enough to prey on," Benichou said.

    McNulty reportedly met 65-year-old Alden Marin in 2021 and convinced him to let her stay at his home, claiming she was waiting for her new place to be ready. However, days turned into weeks, then months, and Marin's sister reported a change in McNulty's behavior as she continued to make excuses about not paying rent.

    Benichou noted that people in California often underestimate the risk of squatting due to the state's reputation for being tenant-friendly. "People feel like it's a tight-knit, secure community, but unfortunately, people do take advantage of that," she said.

    California law protects tenants from certain rent increases and evictions, making it difficult for homeowners to remove unwanted occupants. Benichou explained that even if a guest occupies a room without paying or having a contract, they can be considered "tenants at will." Evictions can take months or years, and police are not allowed to forcibly remove residents.

    Benichou believes that the squatting problem could worsen after the wildfires, as people may use the disaster as an excuse to stay in homes without paying rent. She also pointed out that California's sanctuary state status makes it challenging to change tenancy laws to favor homeowners.

    The agent noted that evictions can be a lengthy process and that landlords are often at a disadvantage due to strict regulations. "It'll take a lot of work to get these laws changed, but unless homeowners band together, it will remain in the tenant's favor," Benichou said.

    Benichou also mentioned that corruption and schemes have been exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic, with some people taking advantage of the moratorium on evictions. She warned that similar situations may arise after the wildfires, as people use the disaster as an excuse to stay in homes without paying rent.

    In response to the wildfires, California Governor Gavin Newsom has implemented emergency orders to prevent price gouging and prohibit rent increases above 10% in Los Angeles County through March 8. The state's Attorney General, Rob Bonta, is investigating and prosecuting price gouging cases, sending over 650 warning letters to hotels and landlords accused of price gouging.

    Benichou emphasized that the situation is complex, with both good and bad actors involved. "There are great tenants and great housing providers, but also those who take advantage of every situation," she said.