Deed Theft on the Rise in Harris County: What Homeowners Must Know
- The Spencer Law Firm
- Oct 17
- 4 min read
Deed theft is one of the fastest-growing property fraud schemes in Harris County, leaving unsuspecting homeowners at risk of losing their most valuable asset — their home. With forged deeds and fraudulent transfers increasing, Texas lawmakers have responded with new protections under SB 1734 and SB 647. Here’s what every Houston-area homeowner and developer needs to know now.
TL;DR (Quick Takeaways)
Deed theft is rising in Harris County through forged deeds and fraudulent sales.
Check your deed regularly using the Harris County Clerk’s Office online records.
Texas SB 1734 & SB 647 provide new remedies to challenge fraudulent transfers.
Defensive filings like affidavits of interest and lis pendens can protect your property.
Title companies + attorneys are key allies in preventing fraud and defending ownership.
What Is Deed Theft and Why Is It Growing in Harris County?
Deed theft occurs when fraudsters forge or record false property documents, making it appear they own someone else’s property. In Harris County, the combination of high property values and rapid real estate development has made it a hotspot for deed fraud.
How Deed Theft Works: Common Schemes
Criminals may:
Forge a warranty deed transferring ownership.
Impersonate an heir in a probate property.
Use identity theft to sell or mortgage a property they don’t own.
Once recorded, the fraudulent deed creates legal confusion that homeowners must fight in court.
Signs Your Property May Be Targeted
Unexpected mail addressed to unknown names at your address.
Notices of foreclosure or unpaid taxes when you have never missed payments.
Sudden changes in county property records without your knowledge.
How to Check Your Property Deed in Harris County
Harris County homeowners can:
Visit the Harris County Clerk’s Office website.
Search by name, property address, or deed record.
Sign up for Property Alert programs to be notified of new filings.
👉 This is the first line of defense.
Legal Remedies Under Texas SB 1734 & SB 647
Texas lawmakers passed SB 1734 and SB 647 to strengthen protections:
SB 1734: Allows faster court action to declare fraudulent deeds void.
SB 647: Expands remedies for deed fraud victims, including criminal penalties.
These laws are designed to give homeowners a legal path to fight fraud before losing their property.
Defensive Filings and Preventive Steps
Homeowners can file:
Affidavits of Interest → alerts the county clerk that you claim ownership.
Lis Pendens → if litigation is pending, it warns buyers of ownership disputes.
Regular monitoring → sign up for email alerts from the county.
Role of Title Companies in Preventing Deed Theft
Title companies act as gatekeepers by verifying ownership and ensuring a clear title. Developers, buyers, and homeowners should only transact with reputable firms that perform thorough due diligence.
What Homeowners Should Do If They Suspect Fraud
Contact the Harris County District Attorney’s Office.
File a fraud report with the Clerk’s Office.
Hire a real estate attorney to file suit to invalidate the fraudulent deed.
Alert your mortgage lender and title insurer.
How Developers Can Protect Real Estate Portfolios
Conduct regular title audits on all properties.
File affidavits of interest on undeveloped land.
Partner with title companies experienced in Harris County property fraud cases.
Case Examples: Recent Harris County Deed Theft Cases
Local reports have highlighted elderly homeowners losing homes through forged deeds, with developers unknowingly purchasing stolen titles. These cases underline the importance of early detection and strong legal defense.
Practical Checklist: 5 Steps for Harris County Homeowners
✅ Check your deed every 6 months.
✅ Sign up for Harris County Property Alerts.
✅ File defensive affidavits if concerned.
✅ Consult an attorney about deed fraud risks.
✅ Act immediately if suspicious activity appears.
FAQs: Deed Theft in Harris County
1. What is deed theft?
Deed theft is when someone fraudulently transfers ownership of your property using forged or false documents.
2. How do I check if my property has been targeted?
Search Harris County deed records and sign up for property alerts.
3. What laws protect homeowners from deed fraud?
Texas SB 1734 and SB 647 provide remedies to void fraudulent deeds and punish offenders.
4. Can a title company prevent deed theft?
They can’t stop forged filings, but can help detect fraud during transactions.
5. Do I need an attorney if deed theft occurs?
Yes — only a court can invalidate fraudulent deeds, and you’ll need legal counsel.
Protecting Harris County Homes from Deed Theft
Deed theft is a real and growing risk in Harris County. Homeowners and developers must stay proactive: check records, use alerts, and take advantage of new Texas legal protections.
👉 The Spencer Law Firm helps Harris County residents fight deed fraud, file defensive measures, and recover stolen property rights. Don’t wait until it’s too late — secure your home and investments today.
Protect Your Property Rights Today
Deed theft is on the rise in Harris County. Don’t wait until it’s too late. At The Spencer Law Firm, our Houston real estate attorneys help homeowners and developers fight fraudulent filings, secure property titles, and enforce legal protections under Texas law (SB 1734 & SB 647).
📞 Call The Spencer Law Firm today for a confidential consultation.✅ Defend your deed.✅ Safeguard your home.✅ Protect your investments.
👉 Schedule Your Consultation Now and get peace of mind knowing your property is secure.
Legal Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney-client relationship with The Spencer Law Firm. Laws and regulations may change, and the application of legal principles can vary depending on specific facts. For advice about your situation, please consult with a qualified business attorney in Texas.
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