Why Property Records Are Public

County property records are designed to be transparent. Anyone can search them online to see ownership history, recorded deeds, mortgages, and other filings. This openness protects buyers and lenders by ensuring clear title and preventing hidden claims.

However, because anyone can access these records, scammers can also see when a property changes hands. That public information is often what triggers scam letters and notices sent to new property owners.

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How Property Record Scams Typically Work

A common scam begins shortly after a real estate transaction is recorded. The new owner receives a letter in the mail that looks official and authoritative. The letter usually congratulates the recipient on their new property and then claims there is an urgent issue with the deed or property record.

The letter may say the deed is invalid, incomplete, or missing from your records. It then instructs you to pay a fee, often between $70 and $100, to receive a copy of your deed or to correct the problem.

In reality, there is usually no issue at all. The scammer is simply charging you for something you either already have or can obtain for free or at a very low cost directly from the county.

Why These Letters Look Convincing

These scam notices often use official sounding language and formatting. They may reference the county recorder, property identification numbers, or recording dates. Some even include fine print that makes the document appear legitimate at first glance.

Because homeowners are often unfamiliar with the recording process, especially first time buyers, these letters can cause unnecessary concern. The pressure to act quickly and the relatively small dollar amount make people more likely to pay without asking questions.

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What You Should Know About Your Deed

When you buy property, the deed transferring ownership is recorded with the county. After closing, you typically receive a copy of the recorded deed from the title company or closing professional. Even if you misplace that copy, you do not need to pay a private company to get another one.

Most counties allow property owners to view and download recorded deeds online at no cost. If a physical copy is needed, the county recorder can usually provide one for a nominal fee.

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How to Protect Yourself From Property Record Scams

Staying informed is the best defense. If you receive a notice claiming there is a problem with your deed or asking for payment to obtain a copy, pause before responding. These letters are almost always unnecessary.

Here are a few steps you can take to protect yourself:

• Do not send payment immediately or provide personal information

• Compare the letter with documents you received at closing

• Contact the title company or office that handled your transaction

• Check your county property records directly online

When in doubt, verify before paying. A quick phone call or email can confirm whether the notice is legitimate or a scam.

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Why These Scams Are Increasing

As more county records become accessible online, scammers have more opportunities to target property owners. Automated systems make it easy to identify recent transactions and send mass mailings that appear personalized.

Real estate ownership is often associated with significant financial investment, which makes property related scams especially effective. Scammers rely on confusion and urgency rather than outright threats.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to pay a private company to get a copy of my deed?
No. You can usually access your deed for free or a small fee directly from the county.

Are property record scam letters illegal?
Many are misleading but designed to appear legal through fine print. They rely on confusion rather than outright fraud.

Who should I contact if I receive a suspicious notice?
The title company, closing office, or county recorder can quickly confirm whether the notice is legitimate.

Author

Claire creates wills and trusts which provide security and peace of mind. She compassionately listens to her clients’ dreams, goals, and fears and then fashions plans that best meet their needs. It is important to Claire that her clients understand different options and make decisions that are right for them. She loves to educate clients by drawing out complicated concepts.

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