What Legal Actions Should I Take If Someone Claims My House Is Mine?
It is a common but daunting situation to find oneself facing when someone claims that a house is theirs, especially when it is deeded to you. This article aims to guide homeowners through the necessary steps to take when faced with such a claim, ensuring your property rights are protected.
Identifying the Claimant and Taking Immediate Action
When someone starts to make claims about your house, act quickly and take the following steps:
1. Report to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Notify the FTC as soon as you receive such a claim. The FTC can help in investigating and resolving disputes over property or other consumer rights.
2. Contact Local Authorities: Reach out to your local district attorney’s office, sheriff’s department, and the FBI. They can investigate the claimant's actions and issue necessary warrants.
3. Seek Legal Advice: Consult with a probate and estate attorney to address the fraudulent conveyance paperwork. This process helps void the transfer of assets and remove the claimant's name from the deed.
Proving Ownership Through Documents
Once you have reported the fraudulent activities, take the following steps to prove your ownership:
1. Obtain Certified Copies of Fraudulent Documents: Visit the register of deeds and request certified copies of any fraudulent documents. These will serve as evidence of the false claims made by the other party.
2. Document Your Property: Make sure you have all the documentation regarding the purchase, transfer, or deed of your property. This includes receipts, contracts, and other relevant documents.
Future Prevention Against Fraudulent Deed Claims
To prevent such claims in the future, consider the following steps:
1. Set Up Title Lock: Engage with a reputable company that offers title insurance, fraud alert services, and notification services. monitor your title and set up a PO Box for improved mail security.
2. Secure Your Social Security Number: Ensure that your personal information, including your Social Security number, is safeguarded from identity theft and unauthorized access.
3. Regularly Review Public Records: Periodically check public records to ensure there are no suspicious activities or false claims. This can help you stay proactive and catch any issues early.
Responding to Unreasonable Claims
When someone unfairly claims your property, it is essential to take the following actions:
1. Dismiss Ridiculous Claims: Dismiss any claims you find unreasonable. For example, if someone tells you it is their house, just ignore them, especially if they are not backed by substantive evidence or legal claims.
2. Take Legal Action When Necessary: If a claim escalates, seek legal advice and have a lawyer represent you. This can help you navigate complex legal issues and protect your property rights.
3. Police Intervention: If someone physically tries to occupy your home, report it to the police. Depending on your state laws, you may have protections under the Castle Doctrine, which can be used in self-defense situations.
While dealing with such claims can be stressful, taking prompt and decisive actions, contacting the appropriate authorities, and seeking legal advice can help you secure your property and rights.