The FBI is reporting that title fraud is on the rise, especially in hot markets like Florida. There are two types of title fraud, homeowners should look out for; deed fraud, which is when someone records a fraudulent document in the official records, attempting to change the ownership of the a property. The recording of fraudulent mortgages and liens is another type of mortgage fraud.

Title fraud may go undetected if homeowners don't regularly check the official records. Checking does not prevent the fraud, but it does provide an early warning of what would have otherwise gone undetected, according to the Orange County Comptroller's website. It is noteworthy that the county Official Records Department does not have authority to refuse to record a properly prepared document, even if it may be fraudlent and even if a document is fraudulent, it cannot be removed from the records without a judge's order. So, it is important that you take prompt action if you discover a fraudulent recording.¹

What can you do to protect your property from property fraud?

• Check the Comptroller’s Official Records often using the Records Search to make sure that there are no deeds, mortgages or liens that you are unaware of on your property.
• Signing up for the FREE Property Fraud Alert will automate this process with email or phone notification. Most counties offer this service.
• If your property is not occupied, you should check often to make sure it is not occupied illegally.
• Ask someone you trust to look after your house if you are going to be away for an extended period of time.
• Do not let mail pile up if you are going out of town.
• Make sure that the Property Appraiser and Tax Collector offices have the correct mailing address for you or the person who should receive notices about your property.
• Contact the Property Appraiser and Tax Collector if you suddenly stop receiving notices that you used to get such as your TRIM Notice and Tax Bill.

What should I do if I notice a fraudulent document recorded on my property?

Firstly, act quickly. Report the fraud to your local police, and contact your Property Appraiser's office, and the Tax Collector's office. Neither of these, nor the Comptroller, can take any legal action on your behalf, though, so you may want to consult an attorney to confirm your ownership in the property, or take other appropriate action.

List of local County Comptroller's/Clerk's Websites:

• Orange County: https://occompt.com/official-records/fraud/
• Osceola County: https://officialrecords.osceolaclerk.org/PropertyAlert/
• Lake County: https://www.lakecountyclerk.org/administrative_services/recording_notification_service.aspx
• Polk County: https://apps.polkcountyclerk.net/PropertyAlert/
• Volusia County: https://www.clerk.org/propertyFraudAlert.aspx

If your county is not listed, give me a call at 407-288-0704 and I'll be happy to provide you with the link.