Dedham, MA — As spring arrives and homeowners begin their annual “spring‑cleaning,” Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell is reminding residents that it is also a good time to review their property records and title information using the Registry’s free, online document research system at www.norfolkdeeds.org.
“Spring-cleaning is not just about closets and garages,” said Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell. “It is also an ideal time for homeowners to take a few minutes to review what is on record for their property, especially since, for most of us, a home is our most valuable asset. Our online system makes it easy to do so from the comfort of home.”
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds’ website allows the public to search and view more than 14 million recorded land documents, dating back to the Registry’s founding in 1793. Records can be searched by property owner name, property address, or other criteria, and are available 24 hours a day at no cost.
“Providing secure, accurate, and accessible land record information is central to our mission,” Register O’Donnell said. “Our website brings the Registry into residents’ homes and businesses, eliminating the need to travel to the Registry for most research needs.”
What can Homeowners check online by using the Registry’s online research tools:
- Look up their deed to confirm ownership details, land description, and how title is held
- Verify that mortgages have been properly discharged after being paid off
- Review other documents affecting their property, such as Mortgages or plans
- Confirm whether a Declaration of Homestead has been recorded
- Monitor activity on their property records by signing up for the Registry’s free Consumer Notification Service
“Many homeowners are surprised by how much useful information they can find with just a few clicks,” said Register O’Donnell. “You do not need a lawyer, and you do not need to be an expert. A little knowledge can go a long way toward peace of mind.”
One of the most important items homeowners should check is whether old mortgages have been properly discharged. Once a mortgage is paid off, a discharge must be recorded to clear the property’s title.
“As a consumer, you want to make sure a discharge has been recorded, which tells the world that the mortgage has been paid off,” Register O’Donnell noted. “Not having a mortgage discharged can create a title issue and delay or complicate the sale or refinancing of a home.”
Homeowners can confirm that mortgage discharges are on file by reviewing their property records online at www.norfolkdeeds.org.
Homeowners frequently ask whether they need a copy of their deed. While it is not required, Register O’Donnell recommends keeping one on hand.
“A deed can tell you who owns the property, how it is owned, and the description of the land,” Register O’Donnell said. “For many people, having that information brings peace of mind.”
Non‑certified copies of deeds can be printed for free from the Registry’s website. Certified copies are available through the Registry’s Customer Service Center for $1 per page in person or by mail for $2.00 for the first page and $1.00 for each additional page, per document.
Homeowners are also encouraged to check whether a Declaration of Homestead has been recorded on their primary residence. Recent changes in state law increased the homestead protection amount from $500,000 to $1,000,000, with the increase applying retroactively to valid homesteads already on record.
“If you own a home and it is your primary residence, filing a Declaration of Homestead can significantly increase the level of protection for that property,” Register O’Donnell said. “Given that most people’s homes are their greatest financial asset, this is something every homeowner should consider.”
Information and forms related to Homestead Protection are available at no cost on the Registry’s website. For residents who need assistance, the Registry’s Customer Service Center is available to help with online research, document questions, and certified copies.
“Our goal is first‑class customer service,” Register O’Donnell said. “Norfolk County residents deserve a Registry of Deeds that is accessible, consumer‑friendly, and responsive. Our online system does exactly that.”