How to Locate Property in Israel When You Live in the U.S. or Canada
Many North American families suspect that a parent or grandparent once owned property in Israel. It may be land, an apartment or a share in a building. However, no one knows the details. Therefore, finding out what exists is the first step to any claim.
Where the Search Starts
– Land Registry (Tabu): shows the registered owner of a plot or apartment, and any liens or warnings.
– Municipal and planning authorities: property tax (Arnona) and planning files.
– Israel Land Authority: relevant where land is state-owned or leased long-term.
– Banks, insurers and pension funds: for dormant accounts and policies.
What Documents Help
Old deeds, letters, a relative’s passport or old addresses can point to a block and parcel number. Even a family story may help. In addition, a name alone is sometimes enough to begin.
When the Property Was Never Properly Registered
Some older properties were never fully registered. This is common with shares in land held by several owners. As a result, establishing their status requires a careful review of the records and their history.
Why an Israeli Attorney
Registry searches and requests to authorities are conducted in Hebrew. Likewise, any follow-up proceedings follow Israeli procedure. For this reason, local counsel matters. Shoshan Law, led by Adv. Oz Shoshan, can therefore conduct the search for you remotely and in English.
FAQ
– Can I search from abroad? Often yes. In fact, an attorney holding a power of attorney can do it for you.
– What if I only have a name? Many searches start that way. However, more details make the result more reliable.
– What happens once the property is found? Then the next question is who owns it today. See our guide on locating the successors of a property.
Disclaimer: General information only, not legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by reading this article. Shoshan Law practices Israeli law only.
