1. What does the Register of Deeds office do?
The Register of Deeds office is the county office where all
transactions involving real estate and oil and gas are recorded; for
example, deeds, mortgages, mortgage releases, oil and gas leases,
plats, tax liens, and hundreds of other kinds of documents. This
office also files financing statements under the Uniform Commercial
Code. All records are open to the public.
2. What is a deed?
A deed is a document that transfers real estate from one party to
another. This is your title to your house or land.
3. How can I change the name on my deed?
The old deed cannot be changed since it has already been recorded. A
new deed must be drawn up. We recommend you go to a title company or
attorney for this.
4. What happens if I lose my deed?
Nothing if you have it recorded in this office. You can always get a
copy of it. You can also get a certified copy, which is as good as
an original.
5. Can the Register of Deeds sign a statement showing who owns
some land?
No. A title company must do a title search for you. We will assist
you if you wish to look at the records, but we cannot do a
certificate of title.
6. What are the requirements for recording a document?
It must be the original document with original signatures, must have
fees and a legal description. It must be notarized correctly. A deed
must include a Sales Validation Questionnaire, which is a form that
helps the County Appraiser in appraising the property.
7. Where can I find a copies of marriage licenses, death
certificates and birth certificates?
At the Division of Vital Statistics in Topeka, Kansas. We have the
forms to fill out to send to the state for these records. Or you can
call 785-296-1400 or visit their website and download the forms at
http://www.kdhe.state.ks.us/vital/
8. If my spouse died, how do I change the name on my deed?
If you owned the house or land in joint tenancy, you can file a
certified copy of their death certificate with this office. This
will remove their name from the title. Call us for instructions of
how to do this.
9. I own oil and gas or royalty interest in Seward County. Can
you send me my deed?
Oil and gas ownership can stem from party to party clear back from
when Seward County first came into being. It can be very
complicated. If we can spot something quickly to help you, we will
do all we can. Otherwise, we recommend you hire a petroleum landman
to get this information for you. They are the professionals in this
area.
10. My mortgage was just paid off. How to I get the mortgage
canceled?
Since it is recorded, we cannot take it off the records. Your
mortgage company will need to file a mortgage release in the
register of deeds office.
