Harris County to launch new tool to protect property owners from deed fraud

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) -- Homeowners in Harris County could be more at ease when it comes to deed fraud as the clerk's office is preparing to launch a new tool to protect you.

According to the Harris County Clerk's site, the new "Property Alert System" will be a free service. A launch date has not been listed yet.

When activated, property owners can enroll to receive an alert whenever a document is recorded under their registered name.

This will allow them to review the filing and identify any unauthorized activity.

ABC13 has covered countless stories of deed fraud. Including one from 2023, in which Timothy Willard was accused of targeting properties around Houston that were already paid in full with no liens, and allegedly forged documents showing he was the owner.

Eyewitness News will share more when the county's system is up and running.

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