Clients should beware of a recent scam in which companies are recommending that all homeowners obtain a copy of their current Grant Deed. Contrary to this advice, securing a copy of the deed is not necessary once the original has been recorded (having a copy of the deed is not necessary to prove ownership as long as the deed is recorded in the county clerk’s office). The companies involved in this scam have been contacting property owners via letters and emails, offering to provide a copy of the deed for a fee that ranges anywhere from $50 to $80. Though not required, if a homeowner does wish to obtain a certified copy of the deed, this can be done through the county clerk’s office for a smaller fee, usually between $4 and $10 depending on the length of the original document.
