Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can anyone access the information contained at the Register of Deeds Office?

Yes! All the information in our office is public record.

2. How can I transfer names on a deed?

You will need to have a new deed drawn up by an attorney.

3. How do I obtain a certified copy of my birth certificate?

You may come into the office and fill out our application, write a request, or use our online printable application. We now offer online services for obtaining birth, death, and marriage certificates. Please click the link on the main page of our department website.

Please provide the full name at birth, father's name, mother's maiden name, applicant date of birth, and the relationship of the person requesting (must be a parent/step-parent, sister/brother, spouse, grandparent/step-grandparent, child/step-child, or self). Send a photo copy of your Driver's license along with a $10 Money order made payable to the Chowan County Register of Deeds, PO Box 487, Edenton, NC 27932.

4. How do I obtain a certified copy of a death certificate?

Provide the decedent's full name, the date of death, and your relationship to the decedent. The person requesting must be a spouse, child/step-child, parent/step-parent, grandparent/step-grandparent, or brother/sister. Please send a $10 money order made payable to the Chowan County Register of Deeds, PO Box 487, Edenton, NC 27932.

5. How can I add the father's name to my child's birth certificate?

If the mother of the child marries the natural father, a legitimations can be processed. Both parents must sign under oath in the presence of a Notary Public or Register of Deeds that they have married and are the natural parents of the child. A certified copy of marriage must also be provided. The cost is $10 to the Register of Deeds and $15 to NC Vital Records.

6. How do I file separation papers?

The Register of Deeds Office does NOT provide legal advice. You may want to seek the advice of an attorney.

7. How do I get a copy of my divorce paperwork?

The Register of Deeds Office does NOT maintain divorce records, contact the Clerk of Courts office for information pertaining to this. The Chowan County Clerks Office Number is (252) 368-5000.