Start by finding out who holds the original
Deeds and mortgages are recorded, so the county has the official copy even if yours is gone. The promissory note usually sits with the lender or the investor that bought the loan. A paid-off loan's release should be on file with the county too. Knowing the holder tells you whom to call.
Begin with the recorder's office or the title company that handled the closing.
Getting copies of recorded papers
The county recorder can usually provide a copy of a recorded deed or mortgage for a fee, and a certified copy if an agency requires one. You search by name, address or instrument number. Many counties allow searches online, and some require a visit or a written request.
Certified copies are the version to ask for when an office such as a consulate or court needs proof.
Lost note affidavits
If a lender loses a note, it may sign a lost note affidavit describing the loss and its efforts to find the paper, and sometimes agree to protect the borrower from a second claim. The affidavit is signed before a notary. Lenders have their own forms and rules.
A borrower who lost their own copy of a paid note generally needs only a statement from the lender that the debt is paid.
Replacing a lost release
If a mortgage was paid but no satisfaction was recorded, ask the former lender or its successor to sign and record one. Old lenders that merged or closed can be hard to trace. A title company or attorney can often help locate the right party or pursue a court route if needed.
Acting before a sale or refinance avoids last-minute delays.
Preventing the problem
Keep originals in a fireproof box or a bank deposit box, and keep scans in a secure encrypted folder. Tell your executor where they are. Write down the recording numbers for your deed and mortgage. When you need a signature notarized or a copy delivered, a mobile notary and courier such as MCC Solutions can help with the logistics, though the legal choice of document belongs to your attorney.
Be careful of anyone who offers to sell you replacement deeds or records for a high fee. Public records are generally available from the county at a modest cost, and your title company or attorney can request them for you. A site that looks official but charges far more than the county may be a copy service, not a government office.
If you cannot tell which loan or lender applies, search the county index under your name and the property address. The mortgage entries will list the lender and recording dates, which you can use to track down successors. Keep a written log of every call, name and date while you work through the replacement.
Common questions
Is a photocopy of my deed enough?
A copy shows what the deed said, but the recorded version is the official record. Get a certified copy if an office requires proof.
Can I replace a lost note myself?
Not usually. The holder of the note handles replacement. Ask the lender or servicer.
Does a lost deed cost me ownership?
Not by itself. The recorded deed remains in the county records. Ask an attorney if you have concerns.
More notary guides
- Remote Notarization Recordings and Record Retention
- Why an Apostille Request Gets Rejected or Delayed
- Promissory Notes and Personal Loan Agreements
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Fees and procedures change; check with the office involved or an attorney for your situation.