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 legal notice lodged with Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) that acts as a "stop" sign on a property title, preventing the owner from selling or transferring it.
To lodge one, you must have a 'caveatable interest', such as a signed purchase agreement or a claim under the Property (Relationships) Act. It protects your claim but lodging one improperly can lead to liability for damages.
Caveats are removed by withdrawal, lapsing, or court order.
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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