What is a Washington DC Quitclaim Deed?
A Washington DC quitclaim deed is a document that allows a property’s owner (grantor) to transfer property to a new owner (grantee) without guarantee about the title. This works best when the two parties know and trust one another, such as when adding a spouse to a deed or transferring property within the same family.
When someone wants a warranty on the title, they need to use a warranty deed. This uses different terminology and only applies when the deed’s title has been properly cleared.
Sometimes a quitclaim deed is mistakenly called a “quit claim deed,” “quick claim deed,” or “quit claims deed,” but these are not a different type of deed. All refer to the same deed that comes with no warranty or guarantee on the title.
Download a Washington, DC Quitclaim Deed
Download: Word (.docx) or Adobe PDF
Important Laws & Requirements
- Laws: § 42–601
- Signing: Per § 42–1017 the deed must be signed in the presence of a notary or with some other appropriate witness.
- Wording: § 42–601 offers a generic grant deed. To turn this into a quitclaim deed with no warranty, remove the word “grant” and replace it with “quitclaim” in this deed. This implies a nullified warranty.
- Recording: Quitclaim deeds in Washington, DC are recorded at the Recorder of Deeds office.
- Filing Fee: The Recorder of Deeds office charges $31.50 to record deeds. A check or money order must be made out to DC Treasurer. This fee can also be paid via credit card or by cash.
How to Write & File a Quitclaim Deed in Washington, DC
Step 1: Download the Washington, DC quitclaim deed form.
Step 2: In the top left-hand corner, record the name of the person who is filling out the form. You will also need their address.
Step 3: Under the preparer’s name, record the name and address of the person who will receive the completed deed after it is appropriately filed.
Step 4: Write the date the deed is being prepared. Start with the calendar day, then the month and year.
Step 5: After “by and between” write the name of the grantor, followed by the words “party of the first part” and the name of the grantee, followed by the words “parties of the second part.”
Step 6: After “consideration in the sum of” write the value being paid for the property. This will be written in words and then in numbers.
Step 7: After this, record the property’s legal description, including the address. If you need additional space, add an attachment to the deed.
Step 8: Have the grantor sign the deed in front of a notary.
Step 9: Take the deed to the Washington, DC Recorder of Deeds. Pay the fee and file the deed to make it legally binding.
