Congratulations, you’ve paid off your mortgage! Reaching this significant financial milestone is a huge achievement. After years of payments, your home is finally yours. But this new chapter brings a new responsibility: deciding what to do with your house deeds. Once held by your lender, these crucial documents are now in your care. This guide will walk you through what house deeds are and the best options for storing them safely.
What Are House Deeds?
House deeds are the legal documents that prove you are the owner of a property. This collection of paperwork includes the title deeds, which officially record ownership, along with other important documents like planning permissions, maps, and any legal agreements related to your home.
These documents are essential. You will need them if you ever decide to sell your property, pass it on to your heirs, or remortgage it. Losing them can lead to significant costs and complications, so keeping them secure is a top priority.
Where Can You Store Your House Deeds?
With the mortgage paid, your lender will return the deeds to you. You now have a few options for safekeeping.
Storing Deeds with a Solicitor
One of the most traditional and secure methods is to store your deeds with a solicitor. According to the Law Society of Ireland, most solicitors offer this service.
- Why choose a solicitor? Solicitors’ practices are generally well-equipped to store important legal documents securely, often in fire-resistant vaults. They understand the importance of these papers and have procedures in place for their protection.
- What are the costs? The cost can vary. Some solicitors may store deeds for free as part of their service to clients, while others charge an annual fee. It’s wise to check with your solicitor about their specific policy and pricing.
- What if I don’t have a solicitor? If you used a solicitor for your home purchase, they are a good first point of contact. If not, firms like HOMS Assist can provide guidance on property matters and may offer storage solutions.
Using Specialist Storage Facilities
If your solicitor doesn’t offer storage, or if you prefer another option, specialist storage facilities are an excellent alternative. These companies are designed specifically for the secure storage of valuable documents and items.
- Document-Specific Storage: Some companies, like Deeds Storage in Lucan, were created by solicitors who saw a need for dedicated document storage. These facilities not only store your deeds but may also offer services like checking that your documents are in order and providing digitised copies.
- Safety Deposit Boxes: Companies such as Merrion Vaults and Sentinel Vaults offer private safety deposit boxes where you can store your deeds alongside other valuables. These facilities boast high-security systems, including custom-built vaults and trained staff.
- What are the costs? Annual fees for these services can be quite reasonable, with some starting from around €40 per year. It’s worth comparing prices and services to find the best fit for your needs.
How to Choose the Right Storage Option
When deciding where to keep your deeds, consider these three key factors:
- Security: How well are the documents protected from theft, fire, or flooding? Look for facilities with robust security measures, including fireproofing and insurance. Losing your deeds can be very expensive to rectify. The Law Society of Ireland warns that replacing them involves significant professional time and costs to reconstruct planning permissions, compliance opinions, and maps.
- Cost: What are the annual fees? While some solicitors may offer free storage, facilities will have a yearly charge. Balance the cost against the level of security and peace of mind offered.
- Accessibility: How easily can you or your executor access the deeds when needed? Check the provider’s procedures for retrieving documents. A good provider will have a clear process for releasing deeds to an authorised person, such as the solicitor handling probate.
How HOMS Assist Can Help
Navigating the legalities of homeownership can feel complex, even after you’ve paid off your mortgage. At HOMS Assist, our experienced solicitors provide expert guidance at every stage of the property journey. Whether you are buying your first home or managing your property assets, we handle all legal details with efficiency and care.
Our services include:
- Reviewing and advising on contracts.
- Investigating title and planning documents.
- Liaising with mortgage lenders.
- Registering the property in your name.
We offer transparent, competitive pricing with no hidden fees, ensuring you feel supported and confident throughout the process.
Secure Your Home’s Future
Paying off your mortgage is a momentous occasion. The final step is to ensure your house deeds—the proof of your hard-earned ownership—are stored securely for the future. By weighing your options and choosing a storage solution that offers security, affordability, and accessibility, you can have peace of mind knowing your most valuable asset is protected.
If you have questions about property law or need assistance with your home-buying journey, explore our services to see how we can help.
