The primary duties of a Registrar of Deeds (or Register/Recorder of Deeds) include reviewing, recording, filing, scanning, and maintaining all documents authorized by law to be recorded, particularly those related to real property such as deeds, mortgages, liens, contracts, plats, leases, and other instruments[1][4][5][7]. These duties ensure the legal certainty of property ownership and provide a centralized, publicly accessible record system.
- Maintain and archive all land and property records, including deeds, mortgages, liens, releases, survey maps, and plats[1][2][3][4].
- Index, image, and eRecord documents for official use and public reference, using quality control procedures to ensure accuracy[1][5].
- Prepare and deliver certified or uncertified copies of official records to individuals upon request and payment of applicable fees[1][5].
- Register, index, and file vital statistics such as marriages, deaths, births, and domestic partnerships in some jurisdictions[1][9].
- Record and file military discharges[1][2][9].
- Collect and distribute state and county fees and taxes tied to real estate transactions[2].
- Administer oaths and record commissions for notaries public, and file bonds and commissions for certain elected and appointed officials[2].
- Maintain open public access to property records, subject to privacy and statutory restrictions[4][5].
- Serve as the official repository for various public documents, which may include state highway, railroad plans, and powers of attorney[2].
- Ensure records are readily available for inspection, research facilities, and limited title or property searches by attorneys, title companies, or the general public[3][5].
While the office is not responsible for guaranteeing title or performing full title searches, it serves as the legal custodian of the public records that are essential for verifying ownership, tracking land transactions, and settling property disputes[4][5].