Protecting Your UK Property:

As we age, it’s natural to become more concerned with our financial security, especially when it comes to our property. Unfortunately, in today’s digital age, identity fraud is a growing threat to homeowners across the UK.

In fact, according to a recent BBC Radio 4 You and Yours programme the Land Registry receives an average of 5,000 reports of property fraud each year.

This is why registering for ‘Property Alerts’ with the Land Registry is crucial for anyone who wants to protect their property from fraudsters.

New figures obtained from a Freedom of Information request show a 300% increase in 2021 in the number of homeowners signing to a property alert scheme to protect against fraudulent property transactions.

So, what is Property Alerts and how does it work?

The Land Registry's Property Alerts is a service that sends you an email or text message if someone tries to alter the ownership of your property. This could be an attempt to sell it, mortgage it, or change the title deeds. With Property Alerts, you’ll be the first to know about any changes, so you can take action to prevent fraud.

There is a small service charge that costs under £30 which frankly is cheap compared with not knowing that someone might be after your biggest asset!

To set up Property Alerts, simply visit the Land Registry's website, create an account, and add your property. You’ll then have the option to choose how you’d like to receive alerts, either by email or text. It’s important to remember to keep your contact details up-to-date, so you don’t miss any important alerts.

In addition to registering for Property Alerts, there are several other steps you can take to protect your property from identity fraud. Here are a few tips:

1. Keep your personal details safe - This includes your name, address, and contact details. Never share this information with anyone you don’t trust.
2. Be vigilant with unsolicited emails - Fraudsters often use fake emails to trick homeowners into revealing their personal details. Be wary of emails that ask for sensitive information or direct you to a website you don’t recognise.
3. Keep your paperwork safe - This includes your title deeds, mortgage documents, and any other paperwork related to your property. Store these documents in a secure place, like a safe deposit box or a fireproof cabinet. It's also worth considering storing a copy in an electronic vault.
4. Be careful with online transactions - If you’re buying or selling a property online, be sure to use a reputable estate agent or conveyancer. Be cautious of any requests to transfer money to a bank account you don’t recognise.
5. Know your rights - If you suspect your property has been targeted by fraudsters, it’s important to know your rights. The Land Registry offers guidance on what to do if your property has been fraudulently sold or transferred.

By following these tips, you can help protect your property from identity fraud. However, registering for ‘Property Alerts’ is the most important step you can take to safeguard your assets. With this Property Alerts service, you can rest easy knowing that you’ll be the first to know about any changes to your property’s ownership.