Vermont Land Records

Are Land Records Public in Vermont?

Yes, land records are public in Vermont. According to the Vermont Public Records Act, all government records, including land records, are considered public unless specifically exempted by law. This means that any member of the public has the right to access and view these records.

The purpose of making land records public is to ensure transparency and accountability in government activities related to land ownership and transactions. By allowing public access to land records, Vermont promotes a fair and open system where individuals can easily obtain information about property ownership, boundaries, liens, and other relevant details.

What Is Included in Land Records in Vermont?

Vermont land records contain a wealth of information related to real estate and property ownership. These records typically include:

1. Deeds: Deeds are legal documents that transfer the ownership of a property from one party to another. They provide important details about the property, such as its legal description, purchase price, and the names of the grantor (seller) and grantee (buyer).

2. Mortgages: Mortgage documents outline the terms and conditions of a loan secured by the property. They include information about the lender, borrower, loan amount, interest rate, and repayment terms.

3. Liens: Liens are legal claims against a property for unpaid debts or obligations. They can be placed by creditors, contractors, or government agencies. Land records include information about the type of lien, the amount owed, and the parties involved.

4. Easements: Easements grant specific rights to individuals or entities to use a portion of someone else's property for a specific purpose. Land records may include information about easements for utilities, access rights, or other purposes.

5. Property Surveys: Land records often contain property surveys, which provide detailed information about the boundaries, dimensions, and physical features of a parcel of land. Surveys are crucial for determining property lines and resolving boundary disputes.

How to Get Land Records in Vermont in 2024

To access land records in Vermont in 2024, you have several options:

• Visit the local county clerk's office: Each county in Vermont maintains land records at the county clerk's office. You can visit the office in person during business hours and request access to the records. The staff will assist you in locating and viewing the desired documents.

• Online databases: Some counties in Vermont provide online access to land records through their official websites. These databases allow you to search for records by name, property address, or parcel number. If available, this option provides convenient access to land records from the comfort of your home or office.

• Third-party websites: There are also third-party websites that offer access to Vermont land records. These websites may charge a fee for their services but provide additional search options and features.

• Public libraries: Some public libraries in Vermont may have copies of land records available for public viewing. Contact your local library to inquire about their collection and availability.

Remember that while land records are public, there may be restrictions on copying or removing original documents from the premises. It is advisable to check with the county clerk's office or the respective online database for any specific rules or guidelines before accessing land records.