Westmoreland County Property Records
What Is Westmoreland County Property Records
Westmoreland County property records are official documents that record ownership, transfers, and encumbrances of real property (land and buildings) within the county's jurisdiction. These records serve as the authoritative source for determining legal ownership and interests in real estate throughout Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania.
Property records in Westmoreland County fulfill several essential functions:
- Establish legal ownership and chain of title
- Provide public notice of property interests
- Protect property rights of owners and lienholders
- Facilitate real estate transactions
- Support property tax assessment and collection
The recording and maintenance of property records in Westmoreland County are governed by Pennsylvania's Recording Statute § 351, which mandates that instruments affecting real property must be recorded to provide constructive notice to third parties. The Westmoreland County Recorder of Deeds Office serves as the primary custodian of these records.
Westmoreland County Recorder of Deeds
2 North Main Street, Suite 503
Greensburg, PA 15601
724-830-3518
Westmoreland County Recorder of Deeds
The comprehensive property record system maintained by Westmoreland County includes deeds, mortgages, liens, easements, and various other documents that affect real property rights and interests within the county boundaries.
Are Property Records Public Information In Westmoreland County?
Property records in Westmoreland County are public information and accessible to all citizens pursuant to Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law § 67.101, which establishes the presumption that government records are public unless specifically exempted by law. Additionally, Pennsylvania's Recording Statute § 351 requires that instruments affecting real property be recorded to provide constructive notice.
The public nature of property records is founded on several important principles:
- Property ownership is fundamentally a matter of public record
- Recording statutes require public access to fulfill their notice function
- Transparency in land ownership serves the public interest
- Public access facilitates real estate transactions and property development
Any member of the public may access Westmoreland County property records without demonstrating a specific interest in the property or providing a reason for the request. This open access policy supports the integrity of the real estate market and protects the interests of property owners, potential buyers, and creditors.
The Westmoreland County Tax Assessment Office maintains public records of property assessments, while the Recorder of Deeds maintains records of property transfers and encumbrances. Both offices provide public access to these records through in-person visits and online platforms.
How To Search Property Records in Westmoreland County in 2026
Westmoreland County offers multiple methods for searching property records. Members of the public may utilize the following procedures to access property information:
Online Search Method:
- Visit the Westmoreland County Public Record Searches portal
- Select the appropriate database based on the type of record needed (deeds, mortgages, tax information)
- Enter search criteria such as property owner name, property address, or parcel identification number
- Review search results and select the desired record
- View basic information at no cost; fees may apply for certified copies or complete document access
In-Person Search Method:
- Visit the Westmoreland County Courthouse during regular business hours
- Proceed to the appropriate office based on record type:
- Recorder of Deeds for property transfers and encumbrances
- Tax Assessment Office for property valuations and tax information
- Complete a records request form with search criteria
- Staff will assist with accessing public terminals or retrieving physical records
- Pay applicable fees for copies or certified documents
Mail or Email Request Method:
- Download and complete the appropriate request form from the county website
- Include specific search criteria and contact information
- Enclose required payment for search fees and copies
- Mail completed form to the appropriate county office
- Allow 5-10 business days for processing and response
Westmoreland County Tax Assessment Office
40 North Pennsylvania Avenue, Suite 440
Greensburg, PA 15601
724-830-3409
Westmoreland County Tax Assessment
For complex searches or historical records, county staff recommends scheduling an appointment with the appropriate department to ensure efficient service.
How To Find Property Records in Westmoreland County Online?
Westmoreland County provides comprehensive online access to property records through several digital platforms. The county's commitment to digital accessibility allows residents and interested parties to conduct thorough property research remotely.
To find property records online, follow these specific steps:
- Access the Westmoreland County Real Property Search portal
- No login is required for basic searches; create an account for advanced features
- Search using one or more of the following criteria:
- Property owner name (current or previous)
- Property address (street number and name)
- Parcel identification number (PIN)
- Tax map number
- Subdivision name or lot number
- Review search results showing matching properties
- Select a specific property to view detailed information including:
- Current ownership information
- Property characteristics
- Assessment values
- Recent sales history
- Tax information
For geographic information and mapping data, users should:
- Visit the Westmoreland County GIS/Tax Mapping portal
- Navigate the interactive map to locate properties
- Use the layers function to display different property information
- Access property record cards and assessment data through the map interface
For recorded documents such as deeds and mortgages:
- Access the Recorder of Deeds online search
- Search by name, document type, or recording date
- View document index information at no cost
- Pay applicable fees to view or download complete documents
The county's online systems are updated regularly, with most property transfers and assessment changes reflected within 1-2 business days of processing.
How To Look Up Westmoreland County Property Records for Free?
Westmoreland County provides several options for accessing property records at no cost. These free resources allow citizens to obtain basic property information without incurring fees.
The following free search methods are available:
County Website Basic Search:
- Visit the Westmoreland County Assessment, Land Records & Taxes portal
- Access the basic property search function
- Enter search criteria (owner name, address, or parcel number)
- View basic property details including:
- Owner name and mailing address
- Property location
- Current assessed value
- Property classification
- Lot size and basic characteristics
Public Access Terminals:
- Visit the Westmoreland County Courthouse during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM)
- Use the public access terminals located in:
- Tax Assessment Office (Suite 440)
- Recorder of Deeds Office (Suite 503)
- Search records with assistance from staff if needed
- View documents on-screen at no charge
GIS Mapping System:
- Access the Westmoreland County GIS/Tax Mapping system
- Navigate the interactive map to locate properties
- View basic property information through the map interface
- Access property boundaries and geographic features
While basic property information is available at no cost, fees apply for:
- Printed copies of documents ($0.25 per page)
- Certified copies of records ($1.50 per certification)
- Complete deed or mortgage document access ($5.00 per document)
- Bulk data downloads or specialized searches
Westmoreland County Courthouse
2 North Main Street
Greensburg, PA 15601
724-830-3000
Westmoreland County Government
The county updates its free access systems regularly to ensure citizens have access to current property information.
What's Included in a Westmoreland County Property Record?
Westmoreland County property records contain comprehensive information about real property within the county's jurisdiction. These records distinguish between real property (land and permanently attached structures) and personal property (movable assets), focusing primarily on real property documentation.
Multiple county offices maintain different aspects of property records:
- Recorder of Deeds maintains ownership and encumbrance records
- Tax Assessment Office maintains valuation and tax records
- Planning Department maintains zoning and land use records
A complete Westmoreland County property record typically includes:
Ownership Information:
- Current property owner name(s)
- Previous owner history (chain of title)
- Deed book and page references
- Date of acquisition
- Purchase price or consideration
Property Identification:
- Uniform Parcel Identifier (UPI)
- Tax map number
- Legal description
- Street address
- Lot and block numbers
- Subdivision information
Physical Characteristics:
- Land area (acreage or square footage)
- Building size and dimensions
- Number of stories
- Construction type and materials
- Year built
- Number of rooms/bedrooms/bathrooms
- Utility connections
- Outbuildings or improvements
Valuation and Tax Information:
- Assessed value (land and improvements)
- Market value estimate
- Applicable tax rates
- Homestead exemption status
- Clean and Green program participation
- Tax payment history
Encumbrances and Restrictions:
- Mortgages and liens
- Easements and rights-of-way
- Restrictive covenants
- Zoning classifications
- Flood zone designation
The content and maintenance of these records are governed by Pennsylvania's Assessment Law § 8811, which establishes requirements for property assessment and record-keeping.
How Long Does Westmoreland County Keep Property Records?
Westmoreland County maintains property records according to Pennsylvania's County Records Act § 1326 and the county's records retention schedule. Property records are generally considered permanent records due to their ongoing legal and historical significance.
The retention periods for various property-related documents in Westmoreland County are as follows:
Permanent Retention (Indefinite):
- Deeds and conveyances
- Mortgage and satisfaction records
- Subdivision plans and plats
- Right-of-way and easement documents
- Tax assessment rolls
- Property record cards
- Zoning maps and ordinances
Long-Term Retention (25+ Years):
- Building permits and certificates of occupancy
- Property tax payment records
- Assessment appeal decisions
- Variance and special exception approvals
Medium-Term Retention (7-15 Years):
- Temporary construction permits
- Code violation notices
- Temporary easements
- Tax claim notices
Short-Term Retention (1-6 Years):
- Routine correspondence
- Inspection reports
- Temporary use permits
- Assessment field notes
The county has implemented a comprehensive records management program that includes:
- Digital conversion of historical records
- Climate-controlled storage for original documents
- Backup systems for electronic records
- Disaster recovery protocols
While some administrative documents may be destroyed after their retention period expires, core property records are maintained permanently to ensure the integrity of the county's land records system. The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission provides oversight for the county's records retention practices.
How To Find Liens on Property In Westmoreland County?
Liens on property in Westmoreland County are public records that can be searched through several official channels. A lien search is an essential step in real estate due diligence to identify potential claims against a property.
To conduct a comprehensive lien search in Westmoreland County, follow these procedures:
Recorder of Deeds Search:
- Access the Westmoreland County Public Record Searches portal
- Select "Recorder of Deeds" search option
- Search by property owner name or property address
- Filter results by document type, selecting:
- Mortgage
- Mechanic's Lien
- Municipal Lien
- Tax Lien
- Judgment Lien
- Review index information for matching records
- Request copies of specific documents for detailed information
Prothonotary's Office Search:
- Visit the Westmoreland County Courthouse
- Proceed to the Prothonotary's Office (Suite 211)
- Request a judgment search against the property owner's name
- Review civil judgments that may attach as liens on real property
- Obtain copies of relevant judgment documents
Tax Claim Bureau Search:
- Contact the Westmoreland County Tax Claim Bureau
- Provide the property address or parcel number
- Request information on delinquent property taxes
- Verify if the property is scheduled for tax sale
Municipal Lien Search:
- Contact the local municipality where the property is located
- Request a municipal lien letter or certification
- Verify outstanding water/sewer charges, code violations, or special assessments
Westmoreland County Prothonotary
2 North Main Street, Suite 211
Greensburg, PA 15601
724-830-3734
Westmoreland County Prothonotary
Westmoreland County Tax Claim Bureau
40 North Pennsylvania Avenue, Suite 111
Greensburg, PA 15601
724-830-3438
Westmoreland County Tax Claim Bureau
For the most comprehensive results, property professionals often recommend conducting searches under all variations of the property owner's name and checking both current and previous owners, as some liens may remain attached to the property despite changes in ownership.
What Is Property Owner Rule In Westmoreland County?
The Property Owner Rule in Westmoreland County refers to the set of regulations and legal principles that govern property ownership, rights, and responsibilities within the county. These rules are derived from Pennsylvania state law, county ordinances, and established legal precedents.
Key components of the Property Owner Rule in Westmoreland County include:
Recording Requirements:
- All documents affecting real property interests must be recorded with the Recorder of Deeds
- Pennsylvania's Recording Statute § 351 establishes that unrecorded documents are void against subsequent bona fide purchasers
- Documents must meet specific formatting requirements to be accepted for recording
- Original signatures and proper notarization are required for most documents
Property Tax Obligations:
- Property owners are responsible for paying county, municipal, and school district taxes
- Tax bills are typically issued annually with payment deadlines
- Failure to pay property taxes may result in tax liens and eventual tax sale
- The county offers tax relief programs for qualifying seniors and disabled residents
Disclosure Requirements:
- Pennsylvania's Real Estate Seller Disclosure Law § 7301 requires sellers to disclose known material defects
- Sellers must complete a standardized disclosure form covering structural issues, water problems, environmental hazards, and other conditions
- Failure to disclose known defects may constitute fraud and result in legal liability
Property Boundaries and Disputes:
- Property boundaries are determined by legal descriptions in deeds
- Boundary disputes are resolved through civil court proceedings
- Adverse possession claims require 21 years of continuous, open, notorious, and hostile possession
- Easements and rights-of-way must be properly documented to be enforceable
Land Use Regulations:
- Property use is subject to zoning ordinances established by municipalities
- Building permits are required for most construction and renovation projects
- Historic district designations may impose additional restrictions on property alterations
- Agricultural land may qualify for preferential tax treatment under the Clean and Green program
The Property Owner Rule also encompasses principles of common law that have evolved through court decisions, including doctrines related to nuisance, trespass, riparian rights, and other property-related legal concepts. Property owners seeking specific guidance on these rules should consult with a Pennsylvania-licensed attorney specializing in real estate law.