A Rhode Island quit claim deed is a legal document that transfers a property title to a new owner (the “grantee”) with a guarantee that the title has not been encumbered during the grantor’s ownership period, but not that of previous owners. If defects that existed before the grantor obtained the title are discovered, the grantee will be responsible for resolving claims and satisfying liens. For this reason, quit claim deeds are rarely used in real estate purchases and are recommended for transfers where guaranteeing the title’s condition is non-essential (e.g., a parent handing down a title to their child or between spouses).
- Statute: § 34-11-12(2), § 34-11-17, § 34-11-18
- Formatting: § 34-11-1.1, § 34-11-1.2, § 34-11-1.3, § 34-11-1.4
- Signing Requirements (§ 34-11-1 and § 34-11-1.1): Notary Public
- Where to Record (§ 34-13-1): City/town recording office wherein the property is situated.
- Recording Fees (§ 34-13-7): $80 + an additional $1 may be charged for each additional page. Cities/towns may charge other rates (see New Shoreham).
- Forms:
- Form A (Affidavit Attesting To The True And Complete Purchase Price): Must be included for New Shoreham deed filings. The grantee must pay 3% of the sale price to Block Island Land Trust.
- Property Disclosure Statement (§ 5-20.8-2): Used to report any material defects in the property that may deter an interested buyer. Must be provided before a conveyance is finalized.