Your guide to the Department of Records' Reading Room

What we do and why it matters

The Reading Room at the Philadelphia Department of Records is your direct connection to important property documents. Located in Room 154 of City Hall, our team helps property owners, buyers, and residents access the official records they need.

Your property documents prove you own your home or land and show its ownership history. These records protect your rights as a property owner and help you sell your property, refinance your mortgage, resolve legal questions, and understand liens or mortgages on your property.

Our Reading Room team helps you find the right documents, answers your questions, researches property histories, and ensures you get accurate copies of what you need.

Our services

Documents available:

• Deeds (proof of property ownership)
• Mortgages and satisfactions of mortgage
• Notary commissions
• Military discharge records (special requirements apply)
• Other real estate documents

In-Person Services:

• Cost: Property documents cost $2 per page. Military discharge records are FREE. We accept cash, money orders, business checks, and credit/debit cards.
• ID requirements: No ID needed for property documents-they're public records. Military discharge records are confidential and require proof of eligibility.
• Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM
• Location: Room 154, City Hall

Online Access:

You can also search and view property records online through Philadox, our online document search system. Search deeds and other property records from 1974 to the present, view watermarked copies, and print documents with a paid subscription. Subscription fees range from $15 for one day to $750 for one year.

For documents recorded before 1974, visit us in person.

Why our team matters

Property ownership can be confusing. Deeds use legal language that's hard to understand, and people often don't know what documents they need or where to find them.

Our Reading Room team helps you find the right documents, answers questions about property ownership and recording, researches property histories, protects you from scams, and ensures you get valid copies for legal and financial purposes.

Every day, property owners depend on us to access the documents that prove their ownership. Whether you're buying a home, solving a legal issue, or just need a copy of your deed, our team is here to help.

Contact Us

Philadelphia Department of Records Reading Room

Room 154, City Hall

Monday-Friday: 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM

Contact us at (215) 686-2292 or [email protected], or stop by during our hours. Our team will be happy to help you find what you need.