Your property is more often than not, your greatest asset which unfortunately also makes it an enticing target for scammers.
Whilst any property is a potential target, your property is more likely to be at risk if;
· The property is rented out or left empty
· Your identity has been stolen
· You live abroad or far away from your property
· The property is not mortgaged
· The property is not-registered with Land Registry
How to
reduce the risk
To protect your property and reduce the risk of property fraud you should consider the following;
· Register your property – if the property is unregistered you should consider registering it with Land Registry.
· Land Registry Alerts – be alerted if someone applies to change the register of your property, for example, to obtain a mortgage or change your correspondence address.
· Enter a restriction – you can add a restriction to the title which requires a conveyancer or solicitor to certify that an application to sell or mortgage the property was made by you.
· Keep the register up to date – if you don’t live at the property or you have moved, make sure that the Land Registry have the correct contact address for you.
If you would like to discuss any of the above please contact Jasmin Howlett at jasmin@fairstep.co.uk or on 01394 277941, alternatively fill out our contact form, and we would be happy to discuss your requirements in further detail.
