Clay County highlights free DeedWatch service to alert property owners of recorded documents

The Clay County Commission on Oct. 6 heard a presentation from Recorder's Office manager Sandra Brock on DeedWatch, a free notification service that emails property owners when a document is recorded under their name.

Brock said DeedWatch gives property owners "instant email alerts when anything is recorded under their name in our system," allowing "quick notification" so residents can review filings and pursue any follow-up. She demonstrated the sign-up steps, which include visiting www.deedwatch.com, selecting Clay County, entering an email address, and adding search criteria such as individual or business names. Brock said users can enroll multiple name variations and can monitor vulnerable relatives' property as well.

"Although deed fraud is uncommon in Clay County, most of what we see is disputes between family members," Brock said. She emphasized that the recorder's office records documents but does not make legal determinations.

Commissioners and staff encouraged sign-up and said the county will help residents who need assistance. A county administrator noted cards have been printed for public distribution; Brock said staff can help residents enroll in person or by phone and that county staff will not charge for notarization when it is needed to complete program paperwork.

Commissioner Johnson said earlier notification helps law enforcement and the public. "The sooner law enforcement knows about it ... the sooner we can act," he said, urging residents to enroll.

Brock and the Recorder's Office recommended DeedWatch as a low-cost, immediate protection for property owners. The county will continue outreach, including workshops and printed enrollment cards.