Harris County, Texas, home to Houston and over 4.7 million residents, is one of the largest and most complex real estate markets in the country. Whether you're preparing to close a deal, vet a potential investment, or resolve a property dispute, conducting due diligence on Harris County property records is a non-negotiable step.
At Abstract Authority, we help professionals nationwide conduct clear and efficient ownership and title research. This guide outlines how to navigate Harris County’s public records system and what to look for when performing thorough property due diligence.
1. Harris County Appraisal District (HCAD)
- Website: https://hcad.org
- Search by address, account number, or owner name.
- Provides:
- Ownership information
- Property use and classification
- Legal descriptions
- Deed history references
- Appraised and assessed values
Pro Tip: Verify that the legal description from HCAD matches recorded documents exactly, especially for metes-and-bounds parcels.
2. Harris County Clerk – Real Property Department
- Website: https://www.cclerk.hctx.net
- This is the official recorder for deeds, liens, releases, affidavits, plats, and restrictive covenants.
- Search by grantor/grantee, date range, or instrument number.
- Documents available:
- Warranty and quitclaim deeds
- Deeds of trust and releases
- Mechanics’ liens and affidavits
- Subdivision plats
- Easements and restrictions
Note: The Clerk’s Office does not perform title searches for the public. That’s where Abstract Authority comes in.
3. Harris County Tax Office
- Website: https://www.hctax.net
- Check:
- Tax payment status
- Delinquencies
- Tax sale history
- Look up by property account number from HCAD.
4. Harris County District Clerk
- Website: https://www.hcdistrictclerk.com
- Search court records for:
- Pending litigation
- Probate cases
- Title disputes
- Foreclosure actions
Navigating Harris County’s property records is doable, but time-consuming and error-prone without experience.
Let Abstract Authority be your trusted partner for Texas real estate due diligence. We combine local expertise with national reach.