Recorded Deed Notice - What Is It, Is It A Scam, or Do I Need One?

For the last several months our clients have been getting notices asking them to pay for a "Recorded Deed Notice" so they will have "evidence" that they property they own was "in fact transferred." Clients normally get them after transferring property to a revocable trust, or in regard to other transfers of land.

The letters, which look official, ask the client to send them $83.00 so that the company, located in California, will send them a copy of the deed (which the company can get online) and a "report" of other information also available online.

You do not need this. If you ever desire another copy of your deed, we can get one for you, and if you ever desire a "certified" copy of your deed, which is also never necessary, we can help you order that as well.

Is it a scam? Well, that I cannot say. Merriam-Webster's Online Dictionary defines a "scam" as "a fraudulent or deceptive act or operation." The Notice does say you can get the information yourself, but is confusing enough that clients are not sure. Certainly other places have viewed this as a scam, including in Tennessee, Iowa and West Virginia.

But I will tell you that you do not need and should not order it.

If you have any questions, please contact our office.

Recorded Deed Notice