What is the Homeowner Alert Service (e-Notification)? LA County Assessor

What is the Homeowner Alert Service (e-Notification)?

The Homeowner Alert Service (e-Notification) is a modernization of the County’s existing “Enhanced Homeowner Notification Program.” The purpose of this program is to promptly inform property owners by email of recorded activities on registered properties. Currently, the Registrar-Recorder will, within 30-days, mail a copy of a Grant Deed, Quit Claim Deed, Deed of Trust, or, within 5-days, mail a copy of a Notice of Default, or Notice of Sale to the property owner upon its recordation. The recording includes a “yellow” and “blue” sheet, which contain an explanation of the notification program. Contact information for the Department of Consumer and Business Affairs is included, and this agency should be contacted if the recording activity seems suspicious or assistance is needed.
In addition to receiving paper copies via US mail, as the property owner, you can also opt-in for email notifications. Once you register, an email will be sent within 48-hours of any recordation on your propety and will include a statement advising you of the recording on your property, and the following information:

1. Assessor Identification Number (AIN)
2. Document Number
3. Recording Date
4. Document Title

If you have any questions about the notification you received, or suspect a recording activity noticed is suspicious, contact the Department of Consumer and Business Affairs at (800) 593-8222, or by email at homehelp@dcba.lacounty.gov.

How do I enroll in the Homeowner Alert Service?

To enroll in the Homeowner Alert Service, you will need to create a profile on the Los Angeles County Assessor’s portal. (Please select Opt-In for AIN/Recorded Document email notification) Once you have created an account, log in to the portal and select “Register Property for e-Notification” on the landing page. Enter your AIN (Assessor Identification Number) on the “Register Property for e-Notification” page and select “Add.” Once you have added your AIN to your account, you will begin to receive electronic notifications when a document is recorded with your linked AIN. If you don’t know your AIN, use the Property Search Tool. You may repeat this step to register other properties on your account.

Is there a limit on the number of properties I can enroll for e-Notification?

There is no limit on the number of properties you can enroll for this service. Furthermore, we recommend that you enroll an elderly parent’s or dependent adult’s property to ensure prompt notification.

Why is the County offering Homeowner Alert Service?

The County understands the importance of timely service when dealing with sensitive situations, and whether it be change in ownership, refinance or foreclosure, we want to notify interested parties as quickly as possible. Therefore, the County developed e-Notification to alert property owners of a recording within 48-hours. This notification service allows property owners the opportunity to seek free legitimate assistance and helps them avoid falling victim to real estate scams. Also, if a property owner suspects erroneous or fraudulent activity, they can report it to the Department of Consumer and Business Affairs at (800) 593-8222, online at dcba.lacounty.gov, or by email at homehelp@dcba.lacounty.gov.

Will the paper notification be discontinued?

No. e-Notification is a complementary service designed to provide prompt notice. So, limited information will be available on the email and a copy of the recording will only be provided via mail through the Enhanced Homeowner Notification Program.

Is there a fee for e-Notification?

There are no fees for Homeowner Alert Service.

Will I continue to receive emails if I sell or transfer my property?

Once you enroll in Homeowner Alert Service, you can opt-out of the service whenever you like. So, if you no longer wish to receive email notices for a property after you sell or transfer it, we encourage you to opt-out.

Are the Homeowner Alert e-notifications available in other languages?

The notifications are currently available in English and Spanish.

Who do I contact if I need assistance with the notice I received?

To speak with a counselor by telephone, dial (800) 593-8222, or submit your request for assistance online at dcba.lacounty.gov.

How do I opt-out of e-Notification?

Sign in to your account and select “Profile” from the My Account dropdown menu. The Profile page gives you access to update user information, e-Notification opt-in, challenge questions, and change your password.