Homeowners Strip Homes Before Losing to Foreclosure

A rash of home stripping is starting to happen around the valley, as homeowners are trying to salvage whatever they can to raise money before they lose their homes to the bank. Often the items will appear on Craigslist or at garage sales. The stripping has nothing to do with attempting to reinstate the mortgage, rather giving the owner cash to get a fresh start where ever they may roam.

Commonly removed items are doors, light fixtures, toilets, but some sellers have been know to take the a/c unit, over, and dishwasher, bathtubs, and even a spiral staircase. Homeowners caught in the act may be subject to criminal prosecution, including damage and defrauding a secured creditor. Authorities must be able to prove that is was the homeowner that stripped the home of valuables, and that the person knew it was illegal to do so. If someone in good faith doesn't know than it would be questionable whether or not the person would be charged. Fixtures are a part of the home, and are not supposed to be removed, per the deed of trust signed by the owner at closing.

If you notice a neighbor removing fixtures, report it to the local police. You can also contact the FBI's Mortgage Fraud Task Force at px_cashback@ic.fbi.gov or 602.279.5511