1. What are the hours of the Recorder of Deeds Office?
   The office is open to the public on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  We have no Saturday or evening hours.  To reach us by phone, call (724) 728-5700 or fax (724) 728-8479.
   
   
2. How far back do the records go?
   The records go back to 1803 and we have some earlier Patent Maps.
   
   
3. What are the recording fees?
   View or download our current Fee Schedule. (You will need Adobe Reader, which can be downloaded at no charge.) Or contact our office and we will be happy to fax you one.
   
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4. How many checks do I need when recording?
   Usually one, except for deeds when Transfer Tax is due...then three checks are needed.  On each for the recording fee, the State Transfer Tax, and the Local Transfer Tax.  We deposit these items into separate accounts.  All checks are payable to the Recorder of Deeds.
   
   
5. May I do recording by mail?
   Yes.  However, you should make sure the documents meet all legal requirements and that you have the proper checks enclosed, made payable to the Recorder of Deeds, for the correct amount.  All documents should include a self-addressed stamped envelope with the proper amount of postage for the return of your document(s).  This office is not responsible for insufficient postage due or U.S. Postal Service dead letter policies.  If you have not received your papers after two weeks, you should call the Postal Service.
   
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6. How long does it take to get papers back?
   If you are recording in person at the Recorder's Office, it generally takes 10 to 15 minutes to review, receipt, and scan the documents.  The recorded original documents are returned by mail. If you have not received your papers after two weeks, contact the person or firm who recorded them for you.  Documents that are recorded by mail generally take a turn-around time of 7 to 10 days.
   
   
7. Can I get information over the phone?
   Yes, General information can be obtained by phone, but for more detailed information you should come into the office or retain a Title Searcher or Attorney.  Office employees are NOT permitted to make searches, or give legal advice. 
   
   
8. Why are microfilm copies made?
   All recorded documents are microfilmed for the purpose of duplication and easy access by our office and the public.  Also, the State of Pennsylvania requires that all recorded documentation be microfilmed and stored for archival purposes.  All scanned images of documents are filmed and also burned onto a CD.  The film and CD's are kept in an underground vault so that all records can be duplicated in case of a disaster in the Courthouse. This is for your protection.
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9. Can anyone look at my deed and mortgage?
   Yes.  All papers recorded in our office are public information, except for Military Discharge papers which are impounded.  This means anyone can come in and look at your deed and mortgage.
   
   
10. Can I prepare my own deed?
    Yes, however it is usually a good idea to have someone with a certain expertise in the field, such as an Attorney or Title Company, prepare it for you to ensure it is correct.  Employees of the Recorder of Deeds may not do this for you.
    
    
11. How do I get a copy of my deed or mortgage?
    You can come into the Recorder of Deeds office and get a copy within minutes.  The charge is $1.00 per page.  You can also get a copy by sending a request to the office.  The mail charges are $5.00 flat fee for 5 pages or less, additional pages are $1.00 each.  If you need the document certified, the fee is $1.50.  Please enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope.  If you are making multiple copies for yourself or your business, you can make your own copies by using our Qkey Vending System.  
    
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12. How do I replace a lost deed?
    By obtaining a copy as described in the previous question.  We must have your full name, location of property, and what year you purchased it.  It helps if you have the County Tax Parcel Number.  (This Tax Parcel Number is available from the County Assessment Office)  You may have the document certified for legal or other purposes.  This is accomplished at the Recorder of Deeds Office.
    
    
13. How do I change, add or delete a name on a deed?
    This can only be done by recording a new deed that shows the change.  Many people think they can simply come into the office and change the present deed on record.  However, once a paper is recorded, it cannot be changed.  Your Attorney or Title Insurance Company can prepare the new deed.
    
    
14. Is it necessary to delete a deceased spouse's name?
    Generally no, if husband or wife held the property jointly as tenants by entireties.  If the survivor sells or mortgages the property, he or she simply explains in the new deed or mortgage that the other spouse is deceased.  There could be a special instance when, because of a legal situation, the name should be deleted.  You should consult your Attorney.
    
    
15. If a woman marries, must she change her name on her deed?
    It  is not legally required, but again, because of a particular situation, it might be desirable.  Consult your attorney.
    
    
16. If I sell a portion of my land, do I get a deed for the remainder?
    No.  Records in the Courthouse show your original deed and the deed(s) for portions sold.  Anyone searching records simply deducts the land you sold from the original deed.
    
    
17. Must I record a deed?
    A deed is binding even if it is not recorded, but because of numerous reasons, it is in your best interest to record it.  One good reason: the former owner can continue getting mortgages or judgments against your property since records in the Courthouse would show he or she still owns it.
    
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18. If I build on my lot, do I get a new deed for the house?
    No. The original deed usually covers any buildings erected on the lot - whether currently existing or if they are added at a later date.  Check your deed for exceptions.
    
    
19. If I find a mistake in my deed, how do I correct it?
    Usually, the same way you change a name...by recording a new deed.  In this case, it is known as a deed of correction.  You should contact your Attorney or Title Company.

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