Navigating Errors: The Importance of Corrective Deeds

By: Rima Suleiman, Esq.

A corrective deed, also known as a correction deed or deed of correction, is a legal document used to correct errors or omissions in a previously recorded real estate deed. Deeds are legal instruments used to transfer ownership of real property from one party to another. However, mistakes can occur during the drafting or recording of a deed, and a corrective deed is a way to address and rectify these errors.

Here are some common reasons for using a corrective deed:

Typographical Errors: Corrective deeds are often used to fix typographical errors in the names of the parties involved, the property description, or other relevant details.

Inaccurate Legal Descriptions: If there are errors in the legal description of the property, such as incorrect boundary details or missing information, a corrective deed can be used to provide accurate and corrected information.

Missed Signatures or Notary Acknowledgments: If a deed was not properly executed with required signatures or notary acknowledgments, a corrective deed may be used to remedy these deficiencies.

Incorrect Property Information: Errors in the property address, parcel number, or other details related to the property can be corrected through a corrective deed.

It’s important to note that a corrective deed doesn’t erase the original deed but rather serves to amend and clarify the inaccuracies in the recorded document. The corrected information is added to the public record through the recording of the corrective deed.

When preparing a corrective deed, it is advisable to consult with a real estate attorney or other legal professionals to ensure that the document meets the legal requirements and is properly executed.