Hi John,

If I had a vendor telling me that, I'd be looking for a new vendor.

And you're correct that in Pennsylvania, liens and judgments are filed in the office of the Prothonotary (our term for the clerk of the civil court--it literally means "first notary"). Occasionally, we find things placed of record in both offices, such an Order of Court in a Quiet Title action, for example. But finding nothing of record in the Recorder of Deeds' office doesn't mean the title is clear. Depending on the county and the complexity of the search, there can be other hidden issues that would only be found by searching the Prothonotary for state and federal liens, and the Ejectment & Miscellaneous Index.  I know some of my counties maintain the Treasurer's Deed and Sheriff's Deed indices in the Pro's office.  Not to mention the fact that the Register of Wills Office may also contain information if decedent estates are involved.

If you need any assistance with search issues in PA, feel free to reach out to me at paralegal-eagle@jbizinfo.com. I'll be glad to answer any questions you may have.

Regards,
Scott Perry, Chief Title Examiner
Jireh Business Information Solutions, Inc.