Register of Deeds
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you prepare my document or give me the forms to use?
No, the Register of Deeds does not prepare any legal document, nor do we give legal advice. Some forms may be obtained from an office supply store. If you need assistance, please contact an attorney, title company or real estate agent.
Do you furnish abstracts/titles to property?
No.
What payment methods do you accept?
Cash and/or check. We cannot accept debit or credit cards at this time.
Can I record a fax or a copy of a document?
No, only documents with original signatures can be recorded.
Can I record a TRUE COPY court document?
No. Court documents must be certified with the court seal to be recorded. Death certificates must be certified with the Clerk's seal.
Can you fax or e-mail me a copy of a recorded document?
Yes, if you have an account in good standing. All others must pre-pay.
Do you have standard document requirements?
Yes, see Recording Requirements.
Can I get documents through the Freedom of Information Act?
No, all documents in this office are public information or covered by state statute. The copy fees for documents are set by state statute.
When will you record my document and what do you do with the document after recording?
We record the document, as long as it meets the recording requirements, the same day we receive it. We return documents 1-2 days after recording to whomever sent/brought the document. If the document came to us through an attorney/bank/title company/etc. it is up to them when they return it to you.
If my property goes into mortgage foreclosure can I redeem it in your office?
Yes, we accept redemption payments. You can also make arrangements through the involved companies, financial institutions, or their legal counsel, and redeem directly from them. After the redemption period has expired, only they can help you.
When was my house built?
We can't answer that. We only deal with land records. Check with your township, city, village or the State Archives.
Do you have a survey of my property?
Only if it has been surveyed and recorded.
Do you have or record mortgage surveys?
No.
How can I find out who owns certain property?
Go to the online Property Search, click on "Begin Search" under Public Users. You can search by name, address or parcel number.
How do I search for a deed?
You need a grantor (seller) or grantee (buyer) name to search the land record information and you should have an approximate year to search. The best way to search is in person and the Register of Deeds staff will be glad to demonstrate how to use our computer system.
Why is there a 2-1/2 inch top margin requirement?
The state passed a law on April 1, 1997 that requires a 2-1/2 inch top margin and ½ inch on all other sides. This is to allow room for the recording information, stamps, etc.
Does the marital status have to be shown on documents?
The marital status of males much be shown on documents that encumber to convey property, such as deeds and mortgages. Please check our “Recording Requirements” link to see which documents require marital status.
Does the document need to be witnessed and notarized?
Documents no longer require witnesses. Most documents require notarization. Please check our “Recording Requirements” link to see which documents require a notary.
What documents have to be tax certified?
Warranty Deeds, Land Contracts/ Assignments and Master Deeds required a tax certificate from the Treasurer’s Office. Please check our “Recording Requirements”.
Will you record a copy of a death certificate?
We will record a County Clerk certified copy (with embossed seal) of a death certificate.
