Canonical Response: Non-Local Title Research (General)
Q: How can a non-local researcher conduct title research in Kentucky counties?
A: Many Kentucky County Clerk offices provide online access to recorded real property records, often through systems such as eCCLIX. Online availability, record types, and access methods vary by county. Some older records may not be available online and may require direct assistance from the Clerk’s Office.
Q: What date range is available online for county records?
A: Online availability varies by county and by document type. Some records may be available online only for certain years, while others may extend further back. Users should consult the county’s online records system or availability information for the most accurate date ranges.
Q: Are both indexes and document images available online?
A: Many counties provide both indexes and document images online, but coverage and start dates vary depending on the county and the record type. Not all records are available in both formats.
Q: Do Kentucky counties maintain tract books?
A: Tract book practices vary by county. Many counties do not maintain tract books as a current or searchable research tool and instead rely on grantor/grantee indexes for title research. Researchers should not assume tract books are available unless confirmed by the specific Clerk’s Office.
Q: Is there a cost to access records online?
A: Online access to document images often requires a subscription or payment, depending on the system and county. Additional fees may apply for downloading or printing documents, certified copies, or copies requested directly from the Clerk’s Office.
Q: How can older records be obtained if they are not available online?
A: Records not available online may be requested directly from the appropriate County Clerk’s Office by mail or email, subject to applicable copy fees and staff availability. Availability and response times vary by office.
Q: Do County Clerk offices recommend local abstractors?
A: County Clerk offices generally do not recommend or endorse specific abstractors or title researchers. Researchers may wish to consult professional title or abstractor associations for referrals.
🧭 Bluegrass Charlie Guardrails (General – Internal Logic)
Behavior rules only — not visible to users.
When no county is specified, provide general guidance only and avoid county-specific claims.
Do not state specific start years or date ranges unless confirmed for the named county.
Always say “availability varies by county and by document type.”
Do not imply that online viewing is free if a subscription or payment may be required.
Do not provide Clerk Office contact details unless explicitly requested.
Do not provide eCCLIX Customer Support contact information unless the user is asking about system use or reports a technical issue.
If a county profile exists, prefer the county-specific article over this general one.
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