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Are Property Records Public in Florida?

Yes, property records are public in Florida. This means that individuals have the right to access and view information about properties within the state. The Florida Public Records Law, also known as Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes, ensures that governmental entities make public records available for inspection and copying by any person upon request. This includes property records, which are maintained by various government agencies and departments.

The reason property records are made public in Florida is to promote transparency and accountability in government. By allowing public access to property records, individuals can gain valuable information about properties, such as ownership details, sales history, tax assessments, and legal descriptions. This information can be useful for a variety of purposes, including real estate transactions, research, and due diligence.

It is important to note that while property records are public, certain sensitive information may be redacted or withheld to protect individuals' privacy or for legal reasons. Examples of such information include social security numbers, bank account details, and confidential legal documents. However, the majority of property records are available for public viewing and can be obtained through official channels.

What Is Included in Property Records in Florida?

Property records in Florida typically include a wealth of information about a specific property. This information can vary depending on the jurisdiction and agency responsible for maintaining the records. However, common elements found in property records include:

  • Ownership details: This includes the names of the property owners, their contact information, and any associated legal entities or trusts.
  • Legal descriptions: Property records provide a detailed legal description of the property, including its boundaries, lot size, and any easements or encumbrances.
  • Sales history: Property records often include a history of past sales transactions, including the purchase price, date of sale, and parties involved.
  • Tax assessments: Information about the property's assessed value for tax purposes, as well as any applicable tax exemptions or special assessments, may be included in property records.
  • Building permits: Property records may contain information about past building permits issued for the property, including construction dates, permit numbers, and details of the work done.

These are just a few examples of the information that can be found in property records in Florida. It is important to note that the exact contents of property records may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific agency responsible for maintaining the records.

How to Get Property Records in Florida in 2024

To obtain property records in Florida, there are several options available:

  • Visit the local county clerk's office: In many cases, property records are maintained at the county level. You can visit the county clerk's office in the county where the property is located and request access to the records. The staff will assist you in locating and obtaining the desired property records.

  • Online databases: Some counties in Florida have made property records available online. You can access these databases through the county's official website or other authorized platforms. Online databases provide a convenient way to search for and retrieve property records from the comfort of your own home.

  • Third-party websites: There are also third-party websites that provide access to property records in Florida. These websites may charge a fee for their services and may offer additional features such as advanced search options and comprehensive property reports.

  • Public records request: If the property records you are seeking are not available online or through other means, you can submit a public records request to the relevant government agency. The agency will review your request and provide the requested records in accordance with the Florida Public Records Law.

It is important to keep in mind that while property records are public, there may be restrictions on how the information can be used. It is always advisable to consult legal professionals or experts in real estate matters for guidance on the appropriate use of property records.

Lookup Property Records in Florida

Counties in Florida
Alachua Baker Bay Bradford Brevard Broward Calhoun Charlotte Citrus Clay Collier Columbia DeSoto Dixie Duval Escambia Flagler Franklin Gadsden Gilchrist Glades Gulf Hamilton Hardee Hendry Hernando Highlands Hillsborough Holmes Indian River Jackson Jefferson Lafayette Lake Lee Leon Levy Liberty Madison Manatee Marion Martin Miami-Dade Monroe Nassau Okaloosa Okeechobee Orange Osceola Palm Beach Pasco Pinellas Polk Putnam Santa Rosa Sarasota Seminole St. Johns St. Lucie Sumter Suwannee Taylor Union Volusia Wakulla Walton Washington
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