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How to Find Out Who Owns a Property (USA & UK)​

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By Admin

Knowing who owns a property can be useful for many reasons—whether you’re interested in buying, resolving a dispute, or just curious. After reading the article, you will know how to find property ownership information using free or low-cost public records in both the United States and the United Kingdom.​

🏠 United States: How to Find Property Ownership Information

1. Use County Tax Assessor or Recorder Websites

Most U.S. counties provide online access to property records. These records often include:​

How to search:

  1. Find the official website of the county where the property is located.
  2. Look for sections like “Property Search,” “Tax Assessor,” or “Recorder of Deeds.”
  3. Enter the property address or parcel number to access records.​

For example, if the property is in Los Angeles County, you can visit the Los Angeles County Assessor Portal.​

2. Check Public Records Online

Some websites compile public records from various counties:

These sites can help you locate the appropriate county office or provide direct access to records.​

3. Visit the County Clerk or Recorder’s Office

If online records are unavailable or incomplete, you can visit the county clerk or recorder’s office in person. They maintain official records of property deeds and ownership.​

What to bring:

  • Property address
  • Parcel number (if known)
  • Valid identification​

4. Contact the Local Tax Assessor’s Office

The tax assessor’s office can provide information about property assessments and ownership. Some offices may offer assistance over the phone or via email.​

🏡 United Kingdom: How to Find Property Ownership Information

1. Use HM Land Registry (England and Wales)

HM Land Registry

The HM Land Registry maintains records of property ownership in England and Wales.​

Steps to search:

  1. Visit the HM Land Registry’s Search for Land and Property Information.
  2. Enter the property’s address to check if it’s registered.
  3. If registered, you can purchase:

These documents are available for immediate download.​

2. Check the Registers of Scotland (Scotland)

For properties in Scotland, the Registers of Scotland provides similar services.​Wikipedia

How to search:

  1. Use the ScotLIS service to search by address.
  2. Purchase the Title Sheet to view ownership details.​

3. Contact Land and Property Services (Northern Ireland)

In Northern Ireland, the Land and Property Services handles property records.​

To obtain information:

🔍 Tips for Searching Property Records

  • Use Accurate Information: Ensure you have the correct property address or parcel number.
  • Check Multiple Sources: If one source lacks information, try another (e.g., county records, land registry).
  • Be Aware of Fees: Some services charge a small fee for official documents.
  • Respect Privacy: Use the information responsibly and follow privacy laws.​

📌 Summary

Finding out who owns a property is possible through various public records in both the USA and the UK. By utilizing online resources and official government services, you can access ownership information efficiently and legally.​

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is it legal to look up who owns a property?

A: Yes, property ownership records are public information in both the USA and the UK.​

Q: Can I find out who owns a property for free?

A: In many cases, yes. However, some official documents may require a small fee.​

Q: What if the property records are not available online?

A: You may need to visit the local county office (USA) or contact the appropriate land registry office (UK) in person.​

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