Here’s the latest consumer alert from the local BBB:

>>
The BBB of Southern Arizona has received numerous calls over the past two days from area residents who have received postcards from National Deed Service, Inc.

The letter offers to provide certified copies of real estate property deeds for a fee of $59.60.

According to the company’s website, www.nationaldeed.com, “National Deed Service, Inc. is not affiliated with any governmental agency. Many government records are available free or at a nominal cost from government agencies. Many of National Deed Service, Inc.’s clients prefer to use National Deed Service to obtain their records as it saves them the time and administrative effort that would be required to directly obtain these documents.”

“While the company’s sales tactics are questionable, it is not an outright scam,” says Kim States, spokesperson for the BBB. “Consumers should keep in mind that this type of information is public record, so a company like this can obtain a copy of the deed and then charge an outrageous amount of money to send it to you.”

Homeowners should already have a certified copy of their deed, States says. And according to the Pima County Recorder’s office, property owners who don’t have a copy due to loss or damage can obtain one for a nominal $1 per page copy fee and a $3 certification fee.

The BBB urges homeowners to check with their county recorder’s office or BBB before sending money to any company offering to supply documents for a fee. The Pima County Recorder can be reached at 520-740-4350, www.recorder.pima.gov. To file a complaint or inquire about a company visit www.bbb.org or call 520-888-5353.
<<