FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is your mailing address?
What are your hours of operation?
Can the Recording office tell me if there are any liens recorded on my property?
Can the Recording office prepare or help prepare a deed?
How can I obtain a copy of my deed?
Is there a fee for recording documents?
What methods of payment does the Recording office/Record Room accept?
Can the Recording office provide a survey showing the boundary lines of my property?
Can the Probate Judge, Deputy Probate Judge or Chief Clerk speak to my civic group or church organization?
Can I find bankruptcies, divorces and other court documents in the Recording office?

What is your mailing address?

What are your hours of operation?

The office hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Can the Recording office tell me if there are any liens recorded on my property?

No. The Recording office or Record Room employees cannot perform a title search, which is the necessary step to take to determine if there is a lien against a particular parcel of land. You may contact a title company or an attorney to provide this service for you. However, the records of the Recording office are open to the public and are accessible via this website or by visiting our office at the location above.  Employees will assist you in making copies of any records you wish to purchase.

Can the Recording office prepare or help prepare a deed?

No. A deed is a legal document establishing property ownership. The employees of the Probate court are prohibited from practicing law or giving legal advice. Therefore, we are not permitted to alter a deed, to prepare or revise a deed; we suggest you consult an attorney if you require assistance in the preparation of legal documents.  The Birmingham Bar Association (205-251-8012) may provide you with a listing of attorneys that can assist you with Probate matters.

How can I obtain a copy of my deed?

Many documents recorded may be viewed from this website at no charge as a courtesy from the Probate Judge.  Uncertified copies may be printed from the website for a nominal fee.  Documents that are not available may be obtained by visiting the Record Room in person or by sending a written request by mail. Requests received by mail will require the names of buyers and sellers (if seller known), date of sale, and the address of subject party/property.  Copies made in the Record Room will be $1.00 per page, excluding plats, which are $15.00 per page.  Documents may be certified by the court as true and correct copies for an additional $2.00 fee per document.

Is there a fee for recording documents?

Yes, fees vary.

What methods of payment does the Recording office/Record Room accept?

The Recording office will accept credit cards, cash, cashier’s check, money order, business check and local personal check with proper identification.

Can the Recording office provide a survey showing the boundary lines of my property?

No. The Recording office records plats of subdivisions showing all lots in a development.  Copies of plats will include the entire area included on the subdivision map.

Can the Probate Judge, Deputy Probate Judge or Chief Clerk speak to my civic group or church organization?

Yes. Please visit our contact information or call the Probate Court at (205) 325-5203.

Can I find bankruptcies, divorces and other court documents in the Recording office?

Bankruptcies, divorces and other court documents are recorded and indexed as court decrees. However, not all court documents are filed with the Recording office. This will vary according to requirements within a court decree or an individual’s personal choice.