SELF STORAGE ZONING ISSUE!!!!!!!!!

[Zach Catenacci]

Hi Bigger Pockets!

I am currently in the process of trying to buy an off market self storage property that is in a residential zone. The storage facility is under 20 units and has not been maintained in years. The area that the storage facility is located has been zoned residential but the building has been there prior to the new zoning. I called the local Zoning officer to ask if the facility is "Grandfathered" in and remains Commercial zoning status. The officer says that if the property is not being used currently as a storage facility that it will be switched to residential zoning. The property does have tenant belongings in some of the units but it seems that they are not currently paying. Are these people/units considered to be Tenants or squatters? Do they remain to be tenants until they are officially given notice to vacate?

Thank you for taking the time to read my post!