Broward County Public Records Search gives you direct access to official documents recorded from January 1, 1978, to today. The online system holds over 1.3 million entries and updates every night from the County Recorder’s office. You can search by instrument number, book and page, grantor or grantee name, recording date, property address, or parcel ID. The database includes deeds, mortgages, liens, plats, tax maps, and related legal papers. All records from 1978 forward come with high-resolution PDF images showing original signatures, notarizations, and notes. Records from 1977 are searchable but lack image links. Older records before 1977 are not online but microfilm copies from 1901 are available in person.
How to Use the Official Records Search Portal
The main portal at officialrecords.broward.org lets you search all recorded documents since 1978. Start by choosing your search type: instrument number, book/page, name, date, or property details. Each result shows the document type, recording date, and a link to view the full PDF. The system groups records into two sections: A–F (like Bonds, Deeds, Foreclosure Sales) and G–Z (like Notice of Commencement, Confidentiality Requests). You can filter results by year or clerk name. For help, visit Room 114 at 115 S Andrews Ave in Fort Lauderdale or call 954-357-9031 during business hours.
Types of Records Available Online
You can find many document types through the Broward County Public Records Search. These include property deeds, mortgage agreements, liens, judgments, marriage licenses, and plat maps. The GIS-linked map sets from 1996 onward show current property boundaries and zoning. The 1935–1978 Survey Series and 1979–1995 Subdivision Plat Collection are also searchable. Each record displays key details like parties involved, legal descriptions, and recording fees. If a document has been marked confidential under Florida law, it will show a “Confidential” label and block public viewing.
Search Options and Filters
The search tool offers multiple ways to find records. Use the instrument number for exact matches. Search by grantor (seller) or grantee (buyer) name to see all transactions involving a person or company. Filter by recording date range to narrow results. Enter a property address or parcel ID to view all documents tied to that location. The system also supports bulk searches for legal professionals and title companies. Results appear in a clean list with clickable links to view or download PDFs.
Confidentiality Requests and Removal Process
Some records may be hidden from public view if approved for confidentiality. To request this, submit Form 404-64 with a notarized affidavit. The form must explain why the information should be protected under Florida Statutes § 119.071. Once submitted, the Records Division reviews it within 30 business days. If approved, the record gets a “Confidential” tag and becomes inaccessible online. To remove outdated or incorrect information, use the same form and include proof of error. Processing takes about one month.
Fees and Payment Methods
Searching the database is free, but printing or certifying copies costs money. The standard fee is $2 per name per year searched. Printing costs $1 per page. Certified copies with the County Recorder’s seal cost an extra $3 for postage. Same-day service adds a $15 surcharge. Payments accept cash, check, or credit card at the Search & Copy Services desk. Online requests use secure payment through the county portal. All fees support system maintenance and staff training.
Electronic Recording and Digital Submissions
Broward County accepts electronic recordings through its online portal. In 2023, over 250,000 documents were submitted digitally. Approved vendors include AccuLynx, SoftPro, and Broadridge. These platforms let title companies and attorneys upload deeds, mortgages, and liens securely. Digital submissions speed up processing and reduce errors. Once recorded, they appear in the public index within 24 hours. For vendor setup, call 954-831-4000 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Accessing Older Records and Microfilm Archives
Records before 1978 are not available online. However, microfilm copies dating back to 1901 can be viewed in person at the Records, Taxes & Treasury Division. Staff will retrieve the films for you in Room 114. You can make copies or request scans for a small fee. This service helps with historical research, estate settlements, and genealogy projects. Bring valid ID and know the approximate recording date or instrument number to speed up retrieval.
Corporate Filings and Business Records
For business-related documents like trade names, annual reports, or corporate filings, start at the Florida Division of Corporations website. This state-level database links to Broward County records when applicable. It shows entity status, registered agents, and filing histories. Use this resource to verify business legitimacy or check for liens against a company. The site is free and updated daily.
Foreclosure and Mortgage Data
The foreclosure database covers auctions and trustee sales from 2005 to 2022. Each entry lists the property address, auction date, trustee name, and outstanding balance. Mortgage records show original loan amounts, interest rates, and release dates. This data helps buyers, investors, and attorneys assess property risk. All information comes directly from recorded documents and is updated nightly.
Environmental Permits and Development Records
The Resilient Environment office provides access to environmental permits, shoreline reports, and development impact studies. These records are separate from the main public records search but link through the county’s Open Government page. Use them to check if a property meets zoning rules or has pending violations. Most documents are PDFs with searchable text.
Work Request Status and Customer Support
After submitting a copy or certification request, track its progress online. Use the Work Request Status tool to see if your order is pending, processing, or ready for pickup. Staff respond to emails at records@broward.org within one business day. For urgent needs, visit Room 114 in person. The office opens Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Common Search Scenarios and Tips
- Property Purchase: Search by address to view all past deeds, liens, and mortgages.
- Legal Dispute: Use grantor/grantee names to trace ownership history.
- Title Search: Combine instrument numbers and dates for full chain of title.
- Research: Filter by year and document type to study market trends.
Always double-check spelling when searching names. Use middle initials if known. Narrow date ranges to avoid too many results. Save PDFs immediately—links may expire after 30 days.
Legal Authority and Compliance
The Broward County Recorder operates under Florida Statutes §§ 119.011–119.071. These laws require accurate indexing, public access, and record preservation. The office must accept all properly formatted documents and maintain them for historical use. Confidentiality requests are reviewed strictly to balance privacy and transparency. Violations can result in penalties under state law.
Contact Information and Office Hours
Visit the Records, Taxes & Treasury Division at 115 S Andrews Ave, Room 114, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301. The office is open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Call 954-357-9031 for phone support. Email records@broward.org for document requests. Certified copies can be mailed for $3. Same-day service costs an extra $15.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many users ask how to find old property records, remove incorrect data, or get certified copies quickly. Others want to know if digital submissions are safe or how to search by parcel number. Below are detailed answers to the most common questions based on 2024 procedures.
How do I search Broward County public records by property address?
Go to the official records portal and select “Property Address” as your search type. Enter the full street address, including city and zip code. The system will return all recorded documents tied to that location, such as deeds, liens, and plats. Each result includes a PDF you can view or download. If no results appear, try searching by parcel ID instead. This method works best for recent transactions since 1978.
Can I get a certified copy of a deed online?
No, certified copies must be requested in person or by mail. Visit Room 114 at 115 S Andrews Ave with your request and payment. You’ll receive a stamped copy with the County Recorder’s signature and seal. Processing takes 1–3 business days unless you pay for same-day service. Online, you can only view or print uncertified PDFs. Certified copies are required for court filings or official transfers.
How long does it take to process a confidentiality request?
Confidentiality requests using Form 404-64 take up to 30 business days to review. The Records Division checks if your reason meets Florida Statute § 119.071 standards. If approved, the record is marked “Confidential” and hidden from public view. You’ll receive written notice by mail. Denials can be appealed within 10 days. Submit forms early if you need protection before a court date or sale.
Are foreclosure records available before 2005?
No, the online foreclosure database only covers 2005–2022. Older records may exist on microfilm but are not digitized. Visit the Records Division in person to request these files. Staff will retrieve them from archival storage. Expect a wait time of 1–2 hours depending on demand. Bring the property address or case number to help locate the correct documents.
What happens if I find an error in a recorded document?
Contact the Records Division immediately. Submit Form PRR-01 with proof of the mistake, such as a corrected deed or court order. Staff will investigate and, if valid, initiate a correction process. This may involve re-recording or adding a marginal note. Errors caused by the county are fixed at no cost. Mistakes by third parties may require legal action. Keep copies of all correspondence.
Can I search records for free?
Yes, browsing the online index is completely free. You can view document summaries, dates, and parties without charge. Printing or downloading PDFs costs $1 per page. Certified copies add a $3 fee. Search fees are $2 per name per year. There’s no cost to submit questions or request help. Avoid third-party sites that charge for basic access—use only official county portals.
How do I verify a business’s legal status in Broward County?
Start at the Florida Division of Corporations website. Search by business name or FEIN to see registration status, annual reports, and registered agent info. While this isn’t a Broward-specific record, it links to local filings when applicable. For liens or judgments against a business, use the main public records search and enter the company name as grantor or grantee. Always cross-check with state data for accuracy.
Official Website: https://www.broward.org/RECORDSTAXESTREASURY/RECORDS/Pages/PublicRecordsSearch.aspx
Phone: 954-357-9031
Address: 115 S Andrews Ave, Room 114, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.