Landlords particularly vulnerable for property fraud – claim
Summary
The article warns that property fraud remains a significant risk for buyers, sellers, landlords and owner occupiers, with HM Land Registry reporting 97 attempted title fraud cases in a year involving properties worth £58 million. It highlights that landlords, overseas owners and owners of empty or mortgage-free properties may be especially vulnerable, while buyers also face payment diversion fraud during conveyancing.
Why it matters
Residential property surveyors may encounter clients or transactions where fraud risks need to be identified and flagged early, particularly where properties are vacant, unencumbered or owned remotely. The article reinforces the need for robust identity checks, awareness of transaction red flags and coordination with regulated professionals.
Key points
- HM Land Registry prevented 97 registered title fraud attempts in one year.
- Landlords, overseas owners and owners of empty or mortgage-free properties are highlighted as higher-risk targets.
- Payment diversion fraud remains a separate risk during conveyancing.
- Professionals are urged to check how data is collected and stored and whether parties are properly regulated.
- A brief conversation about fraud prevention may reduce later financial and legal harm.
This is an RPSA summary of a publicly available article. The full content remains with the original publisher.
