Recording documents

The Recorder's office records primarily 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, wills, mining claims and UCC filings among others.

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 RCW 65.04.015 will not be accepted for recording.

Documents will be returned by mail to the required address on the top of the first page in 6 to 8 weeks. Walk-in customers may request immediate scanning of thier recorded document so that they may leave with the original (maximum of 3 documents and must be presented by 3:30pm).