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Lawmakers weigh title‑fraud study and a probate‑to‑registry notice requirement after fraud examples

New Hampshire House Judiciary Committee · January 21, 2026

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Summary

Lawmakers advanced a study approach to address quick‑claim deed and title fraud and heard testimony supporting HB 11‑56, which would require probate notices to be recorded at county registries of deeds so municipalities are notified of ownership changes. The Attorney General’s office and registries described cases of impersonation and forged notary stamps.

Representative Kerr introduced HB 10‑40, proposing a study committee to review quick‑claim deed and title fraud and possible policy remedies after a national realtor survey showed increased incidents. Kerr said the proposal is a cautious first step to study options — from stricter filing requirements and additional proof for out‑of‑state filers to safe‑harbors for registers of deeds and technological approaches.

Registry of Deeds witnesses and a prosecutor in the Attorney General’s elder‑abuse unit recounted actual and composite cases demonstrating how fraudsters can impersonate owners, forge notary stamps, and use digital listing and banker accounts to move funds quickly. Assistant AG Nancy Dangelis described a composite scenario where a scammer lists a property online, provides forged notarizations, coordinates with attorneys and buyers, and records a deed while collecting wired proceeds.

Representative David Walker’s HB 11‑56 would require administrators to record notices of inherited real estate at the county registry of deeds before a final account is filed, notifying towns and enabling accurate tax and billing updates. Assessors and municipal associations supported the change, saying current practice creates missed notices, late or incorrect tax exemptions and billing problems.

What happens next: The committee agreed to study title/deed fraud options; HB 11‑56 was moved forward in executive session (committee roll calls recorded). Further study will involve registries, bar real‑estate sections and county attorneys to build workable solutions.