Every Los Angeles County Homeowner Should Know: Title Fraud is Real
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
- Title fraud is on the rise—25% increase in cases reported last year.
- Stay vigilant for signs of unauthorized changes or communications regarding your property.
- Implement protective measures like setting up notifications and regularly checking title status.
- Don’t underestimate the importance of title insurance and additional protection plans.
Table of Contents
How Title Fraud Happens
Title fraud occurs through a series of meticulous steps taken by fraudsters. They typically obtain personal details via identity theft or social engineering tactics, and then forge signatures on deed documents to create the illusion that ownership has been transferred. Once the fraudulent deed is recorded at your local County Registrar-Recorder’s office, the fraudster’s name replaces yours on public records. Homeowners often discover this shocking deception only when attempting to refinance or sell their property, or when they start receiving unexplained communications regarding their property.
What to Watch For
Stay alert for the following indications of possible title fraud:
- Unexplained mail or bills for services you didn’t authorize.
- Missing mortgage statements or notifications from lenders that are unfamiliar.
- Fake property tax bills or correspondence from county offices about your property.
- Records of new liens or loans filed against your property without your knowledge.
Take Action Now
To safeguard your property, consider implementing these protective measures:
- Set Up Notifications: Enroll in the free Homeowner Notification Program provided by the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder, which alerts you to changes such as deeds or liens filed against your property. Register at lavote.gov or assessor.lacounty.gov.
- Regularly Check Your Title Status: Review your property records online at least twice yearly. This simple act can help you catch fraudulent activities promptly.
- Freeze Your Credit: This prevents scammers from opening loans in your name and provides an extra layer of security.
- Verify Your Deed Annually: Regular verification ensures no unauthorized changes have occurred.
- Report Suspicious Documents Immediately: If you notice any irregularities, act fast by contacting the County Registrar-Recorder or the Department of Consumer and Business Affairs.
Remember that while title insurance protects against honest mistakes, it typically does not cover cases of fraud. If you’re concerned about title fraud, inquire about additional protection plans from your insurance agent.
Conclusion
Title fraud is a real threat impacting Los Angeles homeowners—don’t wait for an incident to take action. By utilizing free county resources and practicing regular vigilance, you can greatly reduce your risk. How much faith do you have in your current protection level? If these questions resonate with you, now is the time to be proactive.
For more information on protecting your title, visit the L.A. County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk at www.lavote.gov or call 800-201-8999. Don’t let someone else take the title to your home—ensure your property is secure today!
FAQ
What should I do if I suspect title fraud?
Act immediately by contacting the County Registrar-Recorder or the Department of Consumer and Business Affairs.
Does title insurance cover title fraud?
Typically, title insurance protects against honest mistakes, not fraud. It’s important to check with your insurance agent about additional protection plans.
How can I monitor my property title?
Regularly check your property records online and enroll in the Homeowner Notification Program for updates.
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