Property Fraud: How do I protect myself?

Property fraudsters typically target homes which are 1) mortgage free and 2) not the registered owner’s main residence. In both above cases the fraud was perpetrated by tenants of the respective properties.

These articles will no doubt be of concern to homeowners. So, how exactly can you protect yourself?

Register an Anti-Fraud Restriction at Land Registry

You can register an anti-fraud restriction at the Land Registry. This will prevent any transfer or mortgage being registered unless a lawyer certifies the application is made by you. The presence of the restriction on the title could also serve as a warning sign to any potential fraudster.

Property Alerts from the Land Registry

Another option is to sign up to the Land Registry’s free property monitoring service (here). After it is set up you will receive a notification every time an application is made against your property’s title. This only acts as an alert system and will not block any changes made to the register, and so you should use this in connection with the Anti-Fraud Restriction.

For any questions, please contact Michael Taylor or Will Thomas in our Residential Property Team.