Recording Notification Service

According to the FBI, property and mortgage fraud is one of the fastest growing white-collar crimes. Scammers file fraudulent deeds, making it appear as if they own the property. These scammers then trick people into giving them money to rent or buy those homes.

This type of fraud can go undetected if the property owner does not periodically check the Official Records in the county where they own property. Although checking does not prevent the actual fraudulent activity from occurring, it does provide an early warning of what may have otherwise gone undetected.

The Alachua County Clerk of the Circuit Court offers citizens a free Recording Notification Service via automated emails. Citizens can request monitoring of up to 10 different names or variations per registered email address. When a document is recorded into the Official Records of Alachua County with an identity that is being monitored, an email will automatically be sent to the registered email address.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do to protect myself from property fraud?

Check the Official Records using the Records Search to see what documents are recorded under your name and sign up for the Alachua County Clerk of Court’s free Recording Notification Service for automated email alerts when your name or names are added to the Official Records index.

If your property is vacant, check often to make sure it is not occupied illegally.

Ask someone you trust to look after your property if you are away for an extended period of time.

Do not let mail pile up when out of town.

Make sure the Property Appraiser and Tax Collector offices have the correct mailing address for you or the person who should receive notices about your property.

What is the Recording Notification Service (RNS)?

Recording Notification Service is a free service offered by the Alachua County Clerk of Court that alerts citizens via email when a document is recorded in their name.

How does the Recording Notification Service work?

On the Recording Notification Service sign up page, you may enter up to ten name variations per email address. When a document is recorded into the Official Records of Alachua County with a name that is being monitored, an email will automatically be sent to the provided email address.

What documents will I be notified about through the Recording Notification Service?

The Recording Notification Service alerts you to newly recorded documents only, i.e. documents recorded after you have signed up for the service. To search documents already recorded under your name, click here​.

How do I edit the names being monitored?

To edit the names you are monitoring, you can select the “Update Subscription” option on the Recording Notification Service page and enter your changes to the listed names.

Is my Recording Notification Service registration subject to public records law?

Yes, email addresses and names used in registrations for the Recording Notification Service are subject to public disclosure per Florida public records law.

Can I unsubscribe from the Recording Notification Service?

Yes, you can unsubscribe at any time by selecting the “Unsubscribe” link on the Recording Notification Service​ page and entering your registered email address.

Why do fraudulent documents get recorded?

The Clerk of the Circuit Court must record all documents that meet the requirements outlined in the Florida Statutes. The Clerk has no authority to refuse to record a properly prepared document, even if it may be fraudulent.

If a document is proven fraudulent, can it be removed from the Official Records?

No document can be removed from the Official Records without a court order. Therefore, citizens are urged to contact law enforcement and/or an attorney for prompt, appropriate action if fraud is suspected.

What should I do if I think I may be the victim of property fraud?

Contact the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office at 352-367-4000 and/or your attorney or legal advisor.

Neither the Clerk of Court, Property Appraiser, nor Tax Collector offices can take legal action on your behalf to reverse the fraudulent activity.

Does this service alert me of documents being recorded in other counties?

No, this service only alerts subscribers of documents being recorded in the Alachua County Official Records.