Property Fraud Alert
According to the FBI, property and mortgage fraud is one of the fastest growing white-collar crimes. Scammers file fraudulent deeds, making it appear as if they own the property. These scammers then trick people into giving them money to rent or buy those homes.
This type of fraud can go undetected if the property owner does not periodically check the Official Records. Although checking does not prevent the actual fraudulent activity from occurring, it does provide an early warning of what may have otherwise gone undetected.
The Lake County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller’s Office offers citizens a free Recording Notification Service via automated emails. Citizens can request monitoring of up to 5 different names per registered email address. When a document is recorded into the Official Records of Lake County with an identity that is being monitored, an email will automatically be sent to the provided email address.
Sign Up for Free Recording Notification Service Now
Frequently Asked Questions
- What can I do to protect myself from property fraud?
Check the Official Records using the Records Search to see what documents are recorded under your name and sign up for Lake County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller's free Recording Notification Service for automated email alerts when your name is added to the Official Records index.
If your property is vacant, check often to make sure it is not occupied illegally.
Ask someone you trust to look after your property if you are away for an extended period of time.
Do not let mail pile up when out of town.
Make sure the Property Appraiser and Tax Collector offices have the correct mailing address for you or the person who should receive notices about your property.
- Why do fraudulent documents get recorded?
The Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller must record all documents that meet the requirements outlined in the Florida Statues. The Clerk has no authority to refuse to record a properly prepared document, even if it may be fraudulent.
- If a document is proven fraudulent, can it be removed from the Official Records?
No document can be removed from the Official Records without a court order. Therefore, citizens are urged to contact local law enforcement and/or an attorney for prompt, appropriate action if fraud is suspected.
- What should I do if I think I may be the victim of property fraud?
Contact the Lake County Sheriff's Office at 352-343-2101 and/or your attorney or legal advisor.
Neither the Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller, Property Appraiser, or Tax Collector offices can take legal action on your behalf to reverse the fraudulent activity.
- What is the Recording Notification Service?
Recording Notification Service is a free service offered by the Lake County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller that alerts citizens via email when a document is recorded in their name.
- How does the Recording Notification Service work?
On the Recording Notification Service sign up page, you may enter up to five name variations per email address. When a document is recorded into the Official Records of Lake County with a name that is being monitored, an email will automatically be sent to the provided email address.
- What documents will I be notified about through the Recording Notification Service?
The Recording Notification Service alerts you to newly recorded documents only, i.e. documents recorded after you have signed up. To search documents already recorded under your name, click here.
- How do I edit the names being monitored?
To edit the names you are monitoring, select the “Update Subscription” link on the Recording Notification Service page and follow the instructions.
- Is my Recording Notification Service registration subject to public records law?
Yes, email addresses and names used in registrations for the Recording Notification Service are subject to public disclosure per Florida public records law.
- Can I unsubscribe from the Recording Notification Service?
Yes, you can unsubscribe at any time by selecting the "Unsubscribe" link on the Recording Notification Service page and entering your registered email address.