The title deed locking service, developed to counter fraud attempts through fake power of attorney and identity theft, offers property owners a free protection opportunity. The application, activated in just a few minutes through e-Devlet, prevents any transactions on the property without the owner's consent.
What is title deed locking and what does it do?
Officially called "Non-Transaction Declaration Registration," the service is provided by the General Directorate of Land Registry and Cadastre (TKGM) as a digital security measure. When the lock is activated, no transactions can be made on the property without the owner's approval.
The service was launched in response to rising cases of digital fraud and identity theft. Attempted sales through fake power of attorney or transactions attempted with stolen identity information can be largely prevented this way. The owner continues to use and possess the property. Only transactions beyond the owner's intention are stopped.
While the lock is active, sales, transfers, and mortgage transactions cannot be executed. If any of these are attempted, the system automatically halts the process. The lock must first be removed for the transaction to proceed.
How to lock a title deed?
The entire process is conducted digitally, with the fastest method being the Web Tapu service at the e-Devlet Gateway. After the application is approved, the lock is registered in the Land Registry records the same day.
- No additional documents or paperwork is required for the application.
- It is sufficient to log in with your e-Devlet password and T.C. ID number.
- The system lists all properties registered under your name; you select which one to lock from this list.
Property owners without internet access or who prefer not to use digital channels can get information from Land Registry Offices if needed.
How to sell or transfer a locked property?
A person who wants to sell or transfer a locked property must first temporarily remove the protection. After the lock is lifted, the process proceeds the same way as regular title deed transfer transactions.
Unlocking the title deed is done through e-Devlet, just like locking it. In the Web Tapu service, go to the "Declaration Transactions" tab, select the relevant property, and remove the declaration. After this step, which takes a few minutes, the property becomes available for transactions again.
Those who need financing during the sale or purchase process may find it helpful to check their credit scores before applying and review important points to consider when applying for a home loan.
Who is it suitable for?
Every property owner can benefit from this protection. It particularly stands out for reducing the risk of unauthorized transactions on properties that have not been used for a long time or are held for investment purposes. The service is free and does not restrict ownership rights. For this reason, it is considered a reasonable security choice for most owners.
Those who do not plan to conduct transactions on their property in the near future can activate the protection through Web Tapu to provide additional security. Those preparing for a new investment can lock their title deeds after purchase.
