Register of Deeds Division

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can you prepare my document or give me the forms to use?
  No, the Register of Deeds office 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?
  For recording documents: cash, check or credit card. Credit card purchases will be charged an additional 3% convenience fee.
  For copies of documents: cash, check, escrow account and credit card.

• 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 by the court to be recorded. Death certificates must be certified by the Clerk's office.

• Can you fax or e-mail me a copy of a recorded document?

  For immediate service, use the Online Deeds Search - Search the Register of Deeds database for free. Documents can purchased with a credit card for $1.00/page. A nominal technology fee applies.

  We can fax, email or mail copies of documents.

  The cost for copies is $1.00 per page. There is a fax fee of $3.00 per 10 pages faxed. The email fee is $3.00 up to 5 documents. There is no additional fee for mailing documents.

  We accept cash, check, credit card (there is a fee for using a credit card) and escrow payments. All charges are paid in advance of the service. For this service please email: register@miottawa.org.

  Documents are also available at Tapestry Fidlar. There is a fee for this online service.

• 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.

• Who can get a copy of my deed?
  Anyone can. Once your document is recorded, it is public record.

• What is the purpose of recording a document and what do you do with it?

  The purpose of recording is to make a public record of the transaction. Your document(s) are scanned and indexed for the permanent record. Microfilm copies are made, local units of government are notified of land transfers, and the recording information/images are made available on our public sites. The original document is returned to whoever sent it in.

• When will you record my document and what do you do with the document after recording?

  We record and return the document within 1-2 days of receipt as long as it meets the recording requirements. The document is returned to whoever sent or brought the document to us. If the document came to us through an attorney/bank/title agency, 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. The majority of property has not been.

• 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?

  For immediate service, use the Online Deeds Search - Search the Register of Deeds database for free. Documents can be purchased with a credit card for $1.00/page. A nominal technology fee applies.

• 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 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 and Amendments to Master Deeds require 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 of a death certificate.

• I've paid off my mortgage.  How can I get a copy of my deed?

  For immediate service, use the Online Deeds Search - Search the Register of Deeds database for free. Documents can be purchased with a credit card for $1.00/page. A nominal technology fee applies.

  When you pay off your mortgage, you should receive a Discharge, Release or Satisfaction of Mortgage.  You should have received your deed when you first purchased the property.  If you do not have your deed, you can get a certified copy at the Register of Deeds office.