A Step-by-Step Guide to Deed Records in Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania

Fast answer: The best way to search in this area is by deed/transfer history.

Run a search: Property records lookup by address

Overview of Deed Records in Philadelphia County

Deed records in Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, offer crucial details regarding property ownership, boundaries, and real estate transactions. These records are overseen by different offices and have various applications, such as legal documentation and tax assessments. The records available in Philadelphia include:

• Property Deeds
• Mortgages
• Tax Liens
• Judgments
• Plat Maps
• Property Surveys

Step-by-Step Instructions to Search Deed Records

Searching by Address

1. Navigate to the Philadelphia County Department of Records website or the Office of Property Assessment.
2. Find the property records search tool. Look for a link labeled “Property Search” or “Deed Lookup.”
3. Select the option to search using the address.
4. Enter the complete street address in the provided fields (including street number, street name, suffix, etc.).
5. Click the search button to access the property records linked to that address.
6. Review the results. You should see a list of documents that may include the deed, tax records, and other pertinent information.

Searching by Parcel/APN

1. As with the address search, begin at the Philadelphia County Department of Records or the Office of Property Assessment.
2. Locate the property records search tool.
3. Select the option to search by Parcel Number or APN (Assessor’s Parcel Number).
4. Input the Parcel Number exactly as shown in your records, ensuring that any dashes are included.
5. Press the search button to display the associated records.
6. Review the results, which may show deeds, tax records, and the history of ownership.

Which Offices to Check

In Philadelphia County, several offices are integral for acquiring various aspects of deed records:

• Office of Property Assessment: This office offers data on property assessments and the assessed values, serving as a good initial resource for understanding property taxes.
• Department of Records: The main repository for deed records, including property transactions, liens, and other legal documents related to real estate.
• City Clerk’s Office: Responsible for maintaining official city documents, including some property records and tax lien information.
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS): Provides maps and geographic information that may assist in establishing property boundaries and other geographic details.

Common Issues in Philadelphia County Records

When searching for deed records in Philadelphia County, users may face some common issues:

• Condo Records: Condominium properties may be classified differently than single-family homes. Ensure you are searching by the correct unit designation.
• Unit Formatting: Various ways of indicating units (for example, “Unit 3B” vs. “3B”) can lead to search discrepancies. Always verify unit names and numbering.
• Mailing vs. Situs Address: The mailing address might not always correspond with the property’s physical address (situs). It’s crucial to confirm the situs address for accurate search results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What types of documents can I find in Philadelphia County deed records?

You can locate property deeds, mortgages, tax liens, judgments, and plat maps, among other relevant documents.

2. Is there a fee for accessing deed records?

Most records can be accessed online at no charge, though a fee may apply for certified copies or other services.

3. Can I request a copy of my property deed online?

Yes, you can typically request a copy online through the Department of Records or related offices’ websites.

4. How can I find out who owns a specific property?

You can determine property ownership by using either the address or Parcel/APN search methods.

5. What should I do if I can’t find the records I’m looking for?

If you experience difficulties, consider visiting the offices in person or contacting them directly for help.

Conclusion

Accessing deed records in Philadelphia County is a simple process once you acknowledge the available resources and the appropriate steps. Whether you are a potential buyer, seller, or simply seeking information about a property, knowing how to navigate the various offices and search methods will be extremely beneficial. With some patience and careful attention to detail, you can compile all the necessary information regarding property ownership and transactions. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the relevant offices if you encounter challenges, as they are available to assist you.

Explore related guides

• Property Owner Lookup (step-by-step)
• Public Property Records explained
• Property Value & Equity basics
• County / State Records guide