How to Know If a Lien Was Placed Against Your House

Liens can be placed on houses for many reasons, including to secure payment for a mortgage, to secure past-due taxes or to secure payment for unpaid work that was done on the property. If you think you may have a lien against your house, you should take the appropriate measures to find out immediately so you can get it removed.

Instructions

1. Visit your local register of deeds. This office may be located in your county courthouse or county administrative building. The office may also be known as the recorder of deeds.

2. Ask for a form to request information about the status of your home title. Also ask for a copy of any lien that has been placed on your home. You will need to give the staff your name and address for their search.

3. Pay the required fee to get a copy of your lien. Most fees are minimal charges for copying documents. You may have to pay a small cost for each page that is printed. There is usually no additional research fee for this type of search.

4. Use the Internet to access the register of deeds office if you are unable to physically go to the office. Many deeds offices offer online services that allow you to search their database for information on your title and any liens you may have.

Tips & Warnings

• If a lien has been placed against your home, act as soon as possible to have it removed.

References

• Legal Spring: House Lien
• Realty Times: Liens