Lost Original Warranty Deed (documents, insurance, landlord, agreement)

[Dave_2012]

Hi All,

Do we really need to keep original copy of warranty deed & title insurance ? What is the importance of the original documents ? I did not receive the original documents from the title company but only the electronic version sent by e-mail. They said it is ok since we have the electronic copy.
Do I need to have certified copy of the documents when I sell the property ?

Thanks !
Dave
Davenport, FL

[jackmichigan]

What is important is to make sure that the deed is recorded. Once it is recorded, it doesn't matter much whether you have an original, a copy, or no copy at all.

You should make sure to keep your title insurance policy, though...just in case.

[dontaskwhy]

Agreed with jackmichigan. In this modern, paperless work environment, electronic documents are a legitimate method of record-keeping. Shouldn't need the certified documents in this case.

[oregonwoodsmoke]

Was the deed properly recorded? If so, you can get another copy.

However, I consider it foolish to not keep hard copies of really important documents in a safe location.

[MikeJaquish]

I would be just as concerned about the title insurance as the deed.
But, I look for recordation of Deeds "real time" on line after closings.

[KonaKat]

You can always obtain a certified copy from the Recorder's office if you need it, but I agree that there are some documents best kept in a secure place if at all possible like Deeds, birth certificates, shot records, Baptismal/First Communion/Confirmation certificates, Marriage Certificate, Divorce Decree, Child Support documents, Death Certificate. It take some time to get these if you need them replaced and if something might be an emergency could affect you.

[twingles]

YOu may need a copy of the deed one day - i needed it to register my kids for school!

[Okey Dokie]

Originally Posted by twingles

YOu may need a copy of the deed one day - i needed it to register my kids for school!

What a stupid requirement. What if you're renting? Wouldn't utility bills/voters registration/tax bills, etc. etc. be better choices?

[mich2fla]

Originally Posted by Okey Dokie

What a stupid requirement. What if you're renting? Wouldn't utility bills/voters registration/tax bills, etc. etc. be better choices?

In our area, it's either a copy of the deed or a copy of the current rental agreement signed by the renter and the landlord.

At our previous school district in Michigan, other forms like bills, registrations, etc were acceptable.

[junedh222]

I only have a copy of a warranty deed in Michigan. Is a copy ok? Where is the original? Also is a warranty deed the same as a deed in Michigan?