Selling guide
What is a caveat on a property title?
Let’s unravel this legal jargon
30 January 2026
AI summary
A caveat is a formal notice lodged with Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) that acts as a 'stop' sign on a property title, preventing the owner from selling or mortgaging it.
To lodge one, you need a legal 'caveatable interest', such as a signed sale agreement, a claim under the Property (Relationships) Act, or an agreement to mortgage. It protects a pre-existing claim but does not create ownership.
Lodging a caveat without valid grounds can be costly, so always seek legal advice first.
What exactly is a caveat? (And why you should care)
The 'hands off' warning
Who can actually lodge one?
Why are they so important?
How do you get rid of one?
Caveat FAQs
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