what to do if property documents are missing
If your property documents are missing, there are several steps you can take to try to retrieve or replace them:
1. Search for the original documents: Look through all of your records and personal belongings, including safe deposit boxes, filing cabinets, and storage areas. It is possible that the documents may have been misfiled or misplaced.
2. Contact previous owners: If you inherited the property or purchased it from someone else, reach out to the previous owners and ask if they still have the original documents.
3. Obtain a certified copy from the government: You may be able to obtain a certified copy of the property documents from the appropriate government office, such as the office of the registrar of deeds. The process and requirements for obtaining a certified copy may vary depending on your location.
4. Hire a title search company: Some companies specialize in locating missing property documents. They can search public records, contact previous owners and other sources to find the missing documents.
5. Consult with a lawyer: If all else fails, it may be necessary to consult with a real estate attorney who can help you determine the best course of action and navigate the legal process of replacing missing property documents.
It's important to remember that replacing missing property documents can be a time-consuming and potentially costly process, but it is necessary to establish clear legal title to the property and to conduct transactions such as selling or renting it.