As part of our ongoing effort to keep our Owners informed, we’re highlighting two important pieces of legislation recently passed in Texas. Both laws strengthen protections for homeowners, builders, and communities — and reflect the state’s continued focus on property security and responsible building practices.

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SB 16 — Deed Fraud & Theft Prevention

Authored by Sen. Royce West and Rep. Paul Dyson, Senate Bill 16 addresses one of the fastest-growing property crimes in Texas: real estate deed fraud. This occurs when individuals attempt to unlawfully transfer or claim ownership of real property without the Owner’s knowledge or consent.

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Beginning January 1, 2026, the new law:

• Establishes criminal penalties for those who fraudulently transfer or claim real property.

• Defines felony-level offenses based on the property’s value and adds enhanced penalties when the victim is elderly, disabled, a nonprofit, or the property is a homestead.

• Requires photo identification for in-person filings with county clerks and mandates that clerks notify law enforcement if a document appears fraudulent.

• Provides restitution to victims, including compensation for property value, damages, and legal costs.

• Extends the statute of limitations to 10 years for these crimes, ensuring greater accountability and protection for vulnerable populations.

For homeowners, this means an added layer of security and a more transparent process when recording property documents — an important safeguard for one of your most valuable assets.

HB 20 — Disaster Scam Response Act

Sponsored by Rep. Drew Darby and Sen. Charles Perry, House Bill 20 takes aim at fraudulent activity following natural disasters. When Texans face loss, there’s no room for exploitation — and this law ensures that those who attempt it will face serious consequences.

The Disaster Scam Response Act:

• Creates new criminal offenses making disaster-related scams felony crimes.

• Targets false volunteers and fraudulent charities who use disaster relief as a cover to steal donations or aid.

• Gives victims the right to recover triple damages, attorney’s fees, and punitive damages from bad actors.

• Requires counties and cities to identify nonprofit organizations or banks authorized to handle disaster donations as part of their emergency planning.

For homeowners, this law helps ensure that in times of crisis, legitimate relief efforts remain protected — and communities can recover faster without interference from opportunistic fraud.

Why This Matters to Our Owners

At Garabedian Properties, we believe protecting your investment extends beyond construction. These legislative updates represent progress in safeguarding Texas homeowners — ensuring your property records, disaster recovery efforts, and long-term peace of mind are secure.

We’ll continue monitoring changes that affect homeowners, builders, and our community — and share updates as they develop.

Pro Tip: Protecting Yourself from Deed Fraud

While these new laws will strengthen legal protections, homeowners can take additional steps today to protect their property titles and ensure peace of mind:

• Monitor your property records through your county clerk’s office or sign up for deed alert programs where available. Many Texas counties offer free online alerts.

• Verify ownership information annually — confirm that your deed, mailing address, and tax notices are in your name.

• Be cautious of unsolicited mail or calls claiming ownership changes or “urgent” deed transfers. Always verify through official channels.

• Use reputable title companies and attorneys when transferring or refinancing property.

• Keep digital and paper records organized. If discrepancies ever arise, quick access to your documents matters.

A little diligence today can prevent costly problems later — and with these new protections, Texas homeowners will have more tools than ever to defend their investment. Don't let the TV commercials scare you, you can register for alerts directly with the county without paying an out of state company.

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