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Cooper warns about property deed inflation scam

21 June 2007 — Attorney General Roy Cooper warned North Carolina homeowners about a scheme that has misled some people into paying inflated prices for certified copies of property deeds that are often available for little cost.

Cooper’s office has received reports from local Registers of Deeds and consumers that indicated that National Deed Service, Inc of Washington, DC has sent thousands of letters to North Carolina homeowners offering to provide them with a certified copy of their property deed for $59 to $89.  The Register of Deeds in most counties will provide a copy of theses deeds for a fee of less than $10. 

“Beware of companies that try to make a profit off of information that’s already available for little cost,” said Cooper.  “Consumers who get these notices need to know that they don’t have to pay this company to get a copy of their deed.”

In a letter written to Cooper, Jeff Thigpen, Guilford County Register of Deeds, wrote that he has gotten requests for deeds for at least 47 homeowners who had paid National Deed Service for the documents.  In some cases, Thigpen reported that people who paid for the service received inaccurate property deeds from National Deed Service.  Guilford County officials report that the company’s mailings often target seniors, new homeowners and citizens with limited proficiency in English. 

Cooper’s office is concerned about this practice and is taking a look at the company. The Attorney General’s Office recommends that consumers who want copies of deeds to any property they own to contact their local Register of Deeds. Most homeowners receive a copy of their deed at closing.  Some counties also allow you to view deeds for free via their website.

Consumers who have complaints about National Deed Service or similar businesses can file a complaint with Cooper’s Consumer Protection Division by calling toll free 1-877-5-NO-SCAM or by visiting www.ncdoj.com to download a complaint form. 

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