Clerks say free property alerts now available in all 67 counties
The free service alerts property owners to potential instances of property fraud by informing subscribers when a deed, mortgage, or other official record is recorded in their name in a county’s official records
Lawyers may now advise their clients that all 67 Clerks of the Circuit Court and Comptrollers statewide now offer free property alert services for property owners in Florida.
“Property fraud is one of the fastest growing crimes in the United States, and as clerks in Florida, we see firsthand the frustration and damage it can cause for unsuspecting residents,” said 2024-25 FCCC President and Orange County Clerk of the Circuit Court Tiffany Moore Russell, a member of the Bar. "All clerks across the state now offer free property alert services to help combat property fraud and ensure your property stays safe and secure. I encourage you to visit our FCCC webpage devoted to this issue to learn more and sign up for this service today."
In their role as county recorders, clerks are responsible for recording, maintaining, protecting, and disseminating official public records, including records related to real estate ownership. Many clerks have offered opt-in property alert services for residents for several years, and now, with the recent signing of CS/CS/HB 1419 Real Property Fraud into law requiring clerks to create and maintain opt-in recording notification services, every county offers this tool to aid in preventing fraud and theft.
Alert types vary by county, and residents and business owners may receive alerts in various forms such as via SMS, phone call, and/or email. Personal information provided through these services is not subject to public record and won’t result in unsolicited communications, according to the clerks. For a list of all available alert services by county, including the alert type and direct links for sign-up, visit www.flclerks.com/PropertyAlertServices.
Statewide property alert services are opt-in, subscription-based programs that can be accessed via an online registration portal. The free service alerts property owners to potential instances of property fraud by informing subscribers when a deed, mortgage, or other official record is recorded in their name in a county’s official records. If a resident receives an alert about an action they did not initiate, this prompt alert can assist in early law enforcement notification.
Property fraud occurs when a party uses a forged deed to sell or transfer property that does not belong to them. Although a forged document might suggest property ownership has changed, your local clerk’s system will provide rightful owners with the opportunity to reclaim their property under the correct name.
