Record a document

The Recorder's Office primarily records real property legal documents; marriage applications and certificates; survey, condominium, and plat maps; Torrens documents; real estate excise tax affidavits; and other general documents.

Most real estate transactions require recording per state law. These documents include deeds, mortgage documents, liens, notices, and subdivision and real estate contracts.

General documents include military discharges, mining claims, and UCC filings among others.

The King County Superior Court Clerk's Office offers a will repository service; the Recorder's Office does not record wills.

You can record a document by bringing it in person to the King County Recorder's Office or send by mail. Documents presented for recording must meet Washington State document standards. Non-standard documents are subject to higher fees. Documents presented for recording that are not legible as defined in state law will not be accepted for recording. Documents will be returned by mail to the address on the top of the first page in six to eight weeks.

Walk-in customers may request immediate scanning of their recorded document (maximum of three documents at a time) so that they may leave with the original. Note: documents received before 3:30 p.m. will receive same-day service.