Recording Notification Service (RNS) Information

Recording Notification Service (RNS) FAQs

1. What is Recording Notification Service?
   Recording Notification Service (RNS), commonly referred to as “fraud alert”, is a free service offered by the Waukesha County Register of Deeds office that will alert property owners when a document is recorded against their property. There is no guarantee that using this service will inform you of all documents recorded that may pertain to your property.
2. How does RNS work?
   Property owners may register parcel ID numbers and/or legal descriptions to receive email notification. The service will only notify the subscriber of recordings based on the enrolled parcel information. To register or update your subscription, please visit our Recording Notification Service page. The staff of the Register of Deeds office cannot view, change or remove subscriptions from this service.
3. Does RNS prevent an unauthorized recording on my property?
   No. Registered subscribers will receive an email notification of recorded documents based on the parcel information provided during the registration process.
4. Why do fraudulent documents get recorded?
   The Waukesha County Register of Deeds office is required by state statute to record all documents that meet Wisconsin statutory requirements. We have no authority to refuse to record a properly prepared document, even if it may be fraudulent.
5. If a document is proven fraudulent, can it be removed from the land records database?
   Documents cannot be removed from the official land records database, but they can be deemed fraudulent through a court order. Therefore, citizens are urged to contact law enforcement for prompt action if fraud is suspected.
6. Will RNS alert me to all documents recorded on my property?
   No, the RNS system uses the Parcel Identification Number (PIN) and/or legal description for registration purposes. The PIN is required on all conveyance documents, but it is not required on all recordings. If the PIN is missing, or a legal description is incorrect, the document may not be included in the notification process.
7. What documents will RNS notify customers about?
   RNS notifies you of newly recorded documents (only documents recorded after you have subscribed). To purchase a copy of the document you are alerted to, follow the link in the email you received.
8. Does RNS integrate with online monitoring services like LifeLock?
   No. This is a separate service provided by the Waukesha County Register of Deeds office and is not affiliated with LifeLock
9. Will one subscription cover me for all properties that I own?
   No. This service is only applicable for properties in Waukesha County. You will only receive notifications for the Waukesha County parcels that you register.
10. What information is provided in the RNS email?
    The email will contain the parcel information identified in the subscription and a link that will direct you to the recorded document. By clicking on the link, you can see what type of document was recorded and purchase a copy. Please note, the Waukesha County Register of Deeds office is prohibited from interpreting any documents or providing legal assistance. We recommend seeking legal assistance to interpret documents.
11. What should customers do if they suspect fraudulent documents have been recorded against their property?
    Property owners should contact law enforcement and seek assistance from legal counsel if they suspect they are a victim of fraud.
12. Is the information provided during registration for RNS subject to public records law?
    The information you provide during registration may be subject to public disclosure per Wisconsin public records law.

If you have any questions, please contact the Land Records division by email at [email protected] or by phone at 262-548-7589.