Protective measures were recently signed into Florida law to prevent fraud, making it harder for thieves to steal property, and Lee County was chosen to be the state’s pilot location for the new program. Property fraud occurs when someone illegally records fraudulent documents with forged signatures to make it seem they are the legal property owners. Vacant homes and lots are especially susceptible. After the thieves claim ownership, they illegally rent or sell the property to an unsuspecting third party.
New Property Fraud Prevention Program to Launch in Lee County
The “Title Fraud Prevention Through Identity Verification Pilot Program” unanimously passed both Florida legislative chambers. It authorizes the Lee County Clerk to pilot the program for two years and determine how the process may work for other counties.
As a result, The Lee County Clerk’s office will pilot a Property Fraud Prevention Program rolled out in phases and, if successful, could be proposed statewide in Florida.
Identifications Required When Recording Deeds Starting August 1
The first change to protect property owners will require copies of government-issued photo identifications by grantors and grantees when recording a property deed in-person or by mail in Lee County. This change is effective August 1, 2023.
These identifications will not be made public online but kept at the Clerk’s office to provide to law enforcement when investigating suspected property fraud.
Lee County will implement identification requirements for e-recorded deeds at a later date.
Contact Us
Should you have questions about the new law for recording deeds in Lee County, contact the real estate attorneys at Woodward, Pires & Lombardo, P.A. in Naples or Marco Island, Florida for more information.
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