Due to rising concerns around COVID-19, many of the state’s registries of deeds are taking precautions to limit the potential exposure of their employees and the public by closing their doors to public. However, all registries are still accepting E-Recording documents and regular US mail. Most are still also accepting FedEx and UPS deliveries as well. Below is a list of closures and restrictions as of today.
- Belknap: Closed to public as of March 18. Extended E-Recording hours of 8:30-3:30, and they are still accepting US mail, FedEx and UPS.
- Carroll: Open as usual.
- Cheshire: Closed to public. Accepting E-Record, US mail, UPS, and FedEx.
- Coos: Closed to public starting March 23. Accepting E-Record, US mail, UPS, and FedEx.
- Grafton: Limiting public foot traffic for recording purposes only, encourage E-Record, US mail, UPS, or FedEx.
- Hillsborough: Open as usual.
- Merrimack: Open as usual, though they have a new mailing address as of March 1 of 163 North Main Street, Suite 103 Concord NH 03301.
- Rockingham: Open as usual.
- Strafford: Closed to public as of March 17. Accepting E-Record or US mail. Call ahead to arrange for FedEx or UPS – urgent matters are encouraged to be E-Recorded.
- Sullivan: Closed to public March 19. Accepting E-Record, US mail, UPS, and FedEx.
If you have a closing scheduled or need other documents recorded it is important to check with the relevant registry what their hours are and what they are accepting, as the closures may change. If the situation changes to the point that registries are no longer recording it may be possible for title insurance companies to provide limited insurance for the delayed recording, so long as all parties sign an indemnity agreement.
Access to New Hampshire Courts and Enforcing Your Legal Rights During the COVID-19 Pandemic
On March 16, 2020, in response to the emergency orders issued by the Governor relating to attempts to reduce the infection rate from the Covid-19 virus, the New Hampshire Supreme Court, cancelled all trials and hearings that require people to appear at the courthouses in New Hampshire. The New Hampshire Supreme Court is the Court that has the responsibility of supervising the operation and administration of each court in New Hampshire… Continue reading on this topic.