Don’t Overpay For Public Records

Be Wary of Private Companies Selling Copies of Deeds and Other Documents

Palm Beach County residents should be cautious of private companies trying to sell public records that can be easily obtained in a trip to the courthouse or online.

These companies often send official-looking letters advertising the government’s recommendation that all citizens have certified copies of their records, such as property deeds. They then offer copies of the records for fees ranging from $40 to $89 or even more.

Certified copies of deeds and other official records can be obtained from our office for just a few dollars -- not for the excessive prices these companies are charging.

Uncertified copies may be downloaded and printed for free by using the Official Records search.

In addition to property deeds, other public records available from our office include mortgages, liens, court judgments, marriage licenses and tax deeds.

Solicitations like this may be legal, but they are misleading. Every few years, we hear from residents who have received these notices and want to know what they should do. This information is readily available online and at the courthouse – there is no need to pay that kind of money to get public records.

For more information on receiving copies of your public records, please contact the Records Service Center at (561) 355-2932.