Register Book Transcript Overview: Scope and Limitations

A register book transcript is a certified copy of the original register book, which is a legal document that records ownership and other interests in real property. Register book transcripts can be obtained from the local land registry office or through a title company.

Scope of Information

Register book transcripts typically include the following information:

• The names of the current and former owners of the property
• The legal description of the property
• The type of ownership (e.g., fee simple, life estate)
• Any liens or encumbrances on the property (e.g., mortgages, easements)
• The date of recording of each document affecting the property

Limitations

Register book transcripts do not provide all of the information that may be relevant to a real estate transaction. For example, register book transcripts do not include:

• Information about the physical condition of the property
• Information about environmental hazards
• Information about zoning and other land use restrictions
• Information about disputes or litigation involving the property

In addition, register book transcripts may not be up-to-date. For example, if a new mortgage is recorded against the property after the register book transcript is issued, the register book transcript will not reflect the new mortgage.

Conclusion

Register book transcripts are a valuable source of information about the ownership and other interests in real property. However, it is important to be aware of the scope and limitations of register book transcripts before relying on them for a real estate transaction.