How deed theft happens
Fraudsters may forge a deed, use a fake notary stamp, or trick an owner into signing documents they did not understand, sometimes while offering help with foreclosure or repairs. The fraudulent deed is recorded, and the new 'owner' may try to sell the property, take out a loan, or evict occupants. In New York City, older homeowners and properties owned by estates have often been targeted. New York has strengthened its response to deed theft in recent years, and the procedural tools continue to change, so current law should be checked.
Steps to take right away
Check the recorded documents for your property with the county clerk or, in New York City, through the city's online property records system, and sign up for notification services that alert owners when documents are filed. If a fraudulent document appears, contact a lawyer, notify the district attorney's office, and report to the Attorney General's office. Do not sign anything presented by people claiming to help unless a lawyer you chose has reviewed it. Keep your deed, mortgage statements, tax bills, and any letters or notices related to the property.
Restoring title
Correcting property title fraud may involve a court action to void the fraudulent deed and quiet title, along with filing a notice of pendency to warn buyers and lenders. Check whether your owner's title policy responds, since many policies cover only problems that existed at purchase, and lenders may have their own interests in correcting the record. We review the chain of title, coordinate with prosecutors where a criminal case exists, and discuss how to protect occupants from eviction while the dispute is resolved.
