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Property Fraud

Property fraud occurs when fraudsters sell or mortgage your property without your consent. Property is usually the most valuable asset you own and can be sold and mortgaged to raise money. It is therefore an attractive target for fraudsters, who may steal your identity first and then pretend to be you to carry out the fraud. If it is not discovered promptly, you as the true owner might find your property is no longer in your name or has a mortgage against it. Resolving the problem and getting any mortgage removed can be distressing, time-consuming and costly.

You are more at risk if:

  • Your identity has been stolen
  • You rent out your property
  • You live overseas
  • The property is empty
  • The property is not mortgaged
  • The property is not registered with the official land registry

Guard against property fraud

  • Ensure your property is registered. If you become an innocent victim of fraud and suffer a financial loss, you may be compensated. If your property is not registered, no compensation is payable.
  • Once registered, keep your contact details up-to-date so you can be reached. If your details are not up-to-date, you may not receive the land registry’s letters or emails if they try to contact you.

More information

For more information and advice, visit the land registry’s website.

If you think you are a victim of property fraud

Contact the land registry.

See Also...

Protecting Yourself 44