Updating the ownership details on a certificate of title is an important step for property owners to take when there are changes to the individuals who hold ownership of the property. Whether it’s due to a sale, an inheritance, or adding a family member, keeping this legal document accurate is necessary. This guide will explain the process of updating the ownership members on your certificate of title and what to expect along the way.

Why Update the Certificate of Title?

The certificate of title is the official legal document that records property ownership. Anytime there is a change in who owns the property, the title needs to be updated to reflect the new ownership arrangement. Common situations include adding and removing family members from a title, transferring ownership due to a sale, or settling matters after a divorce or death in the family. Keeping the title up to date helps avoid future legal complications and ensures that property records remain accurate and enforceable.

Identify the Type of Ownership Change

Before starting the process of updating the certificate of title, determine what kind of ownership change is taking place. The most common types include:

  • Adding new owners: You might want to add a spouse, partner, or family member to the title, which can be a straightforward process depending on the location.
  • Removing an owner: In cases of divorce, separation, or after a family member’s passing, an owner may need to be removed from the title.
  • Transferring full ownership: If the property is being sold, the ownership will need to be fully transferred to the new owner.

Identifying the specific type of change will guide you in gathering the correct documentation and ensuring that you meet all the legal requirements for the update.

Gather the Required Documents

To update the certificate of title, you will need to gather several important documents. First, you must have the current certificate of title, which lists the existing ownership details. Next, identification documents for all parties involved in the ownership change are required to confirm their identities. If the ownership change is due to legal or familial reasons, such as a divorce or inheritance, you will need supporting legal documents like wills, court orders, or separation agreements.

You will also need to complete a transfer of ownership form, which can usually be obtained from your local land titles office or downloaded from their website. Verify with your local authority what specific documents are required, as these may vary depending on your location and the type of ownership change. Once you have all the necessary paperwork, you’ll be ready to proceed with the process.

Complete the Transfer Forms

Once you have all the required documents, you’ll need to complete the necessary transfer forms. These forms typically require details about the current owners, the new owners, and the reason for the ownership change. The forms can often be downloaded from your local land titles office’s website, or you can pick them up in person.

All the details must match exactly with the information on the current certificate of title. If there is any discrepancy, such as a misspelled name or incorrect address, it could delay the processing of your application. Double-check everything before submission, and if necessary, consult with a legal professional to ensure accuracy.

Submit the Forms and Pay the Fees

After filling out the forms, they must be submitted to the land titles office along with the required supporting documents. In some cases, the office may allow for online submissions, while in others, you may need to submit the documents in person or via mail. Be sure to inquire about your local office’s submission options.

There will usually be a processing fee that varies depending on your region and the type of ownership change. It’s a good idea to check with your land titles office to confirm the exact fee amount and payment methods they accept. Keep a copy of all submitted documents for your records, in case you need to reference them later.

6. Wait for the Ownership Update to be Processed

Once the forms and documents have been submitted, the land titles office will begin processing the application. The length of time this takes can vary depending on the office and the complexity of the ownership change. In most cases, you can expect the update to be completed within a few weeks.

During this waiting period, stay in contact with the land titles office in case they require additional information or clarification. If any issues arise, addressing them promptly can help prevent delays in the process.

Updating the ownership members on a certificate of title is a straightforward process, but it requires attention to detail and the proper documentation. By gathering the correct documents, completing the forms accurately, and submitting them to the right authority, you can keep your property records up to date and avoid potential legal complications down the road.