Property Protection: How to Stop Unauthorized Claims

June 7, 2025 | By Amiel Wade
Property Protection: How to Stop Unauthorized Claims Why Property Protection Matters More Than Ever Imagine waking up to find someone else has filed a claim on your property—without your knowledge. In California's dynamic real estate market, such scenarios are not just hypothetical. With the rise of real estate fraud, including forged deeds and unauthorized occupancy, owners face increasing risks. According to the FBI's 2023 Internet Crime Report, there were over 9,500 complaints of real estate and rental fraud, resulting in losses exceeding $145 million.  This guide provides practical steps to safeguard your property against unauthorized claims, ensuring your investment remains secure. Understanding Unauthorized Property Claims Unauthorized property claims involve individuals asserting rights over property they do not legally own. Common forms include:
  • Adverse Possession: Occupying land without permission and attempting to gain legal ownership.
  • Deed Fraud: Forging documents to transfer ownership illicitly.
  • Encroachments: Unauthorized use or construction on your property by neighbors.
These actions can lead to legal disputes, financial losses, and emotional distress. Proactive Measures to Prevent Unauthorized Claims
  1. Regular Property Inspections Conduct routine checks to identify any unauthorized use or occupation. Early detection allows for prompt action.
  2. Maintain Clear Boundaries Ensure property lines are well-defined with fences, markers, or signage. Clear boundaries deter encroachments and support legal claims.
  3. Promptly Address Encroachments If you notice unauthorized use, address it immediately through direct communication or legal channels. Delays can weaken your position.
  4. Keep Property Taxes Current Timely payment of taxes reinforces your ownership and prevents others from exploiting tax delinquency.
  5. Document Agreements If you permit someone to use your property, formalize the arrangement in writing. This prevents misunderstandings and unauthorized claims.
Safeguarding Against Deed Fraud Deed fraud, or title theft, involves forging documents to transfer ownership illegally. To protect against this:
  • Monitor Title Records: Regularly check county records for unauthorized changes.
  • Use Title Monitoring Services: Some counties offer alerts for changes to property records.
  • Obtain Title Insurance: A Homeowner's Policy of Title Insurance can cover losses from forgery or impersonation.
The Role of a Real Estate Attorney in California Engaging a real estate attorney in California is crucial for:
  • Legal Guidance: Navigating complex property laws and ensuring compliance.
  • Dispute Resolution: Addressing unauthorized claims through legal channels.
  • Document Review: Ensuring all documents are legitimate and properly executed.
An experienced attorney can provide peace of mind and protect your rights effectively.   Secure Your Property Today In California's competitive real estate landscape, proactive measures are essential to prevent unauthorized claims. By conducting regular inspections, maintaining clear boundaries, and consulting with a real estate attorney in California, you can safeguard your property against potential threats. Take Action Now: Don't wait for a dispute to arise. Consult a qualified real estate attorney to review your security measures and ensure your investment is protected.
Amiel Wade Author Image

Amiel Wade

Founder and Managing Partner

Amiel is the firm’s Founder, President and Managing Partner. He specializes in civil litigation, conducting jury trials in complex cases and in helping individuals and businesses in every phase of their development. He has been practicing law for over twenty-five years. He also has served as both a judge pro tem and an arbitrator for the Santa Clara County Superior Court, and has guest lectured at Stanford University.

Author's Bio