Real estate title glossary
What is corrective deed?
Also called: correction deed, scrivener's affidavit
Definition
A corrective deed re-conveys a property to fix an error in an earlier deed, such as a misspelled name or a wrong legal description, without changing the intended transfer.
Some states also allow a scrivener's or corrective affidavit for minor errors. Material changes, such as adding a new owner, need a new deed.
How it shows up in a title search
Corrective deeds appear in the chain right after the deed they fix and are read together with it.
Guides that go deeper
- Cloud on Title: Meaning, Examples and How to Clear OneWhat a cloud on title means in real estate, common examples a title search finds, and how each is cleared: release, corrective deed, lapse or quiet title.
- Chain of Title: What It Is, an Example, and How It Differs From an Abstract of TitleA chain of title is the ordered record of every transfer of a property. A worked example, how gaps appear, and how it differs from an abstract of title.
- Warranty Deed: Meaning, the Six Covenants, and How It Differs From a QuitclaimA warranty deed is the deed where the seller guarantees clear title. The six covenants, a quitclaim comparison, and the Cook County share of warranty deeds.
Related terms
GrantorGranteeConsiderationAcknowledgmentMarketable titleMarketable record title actAbstract of titleTorrens titleAll terms
Source: Legal Information Institute, Wex: deed. Plain-English summary of general US usage; state law varies, and this is not legal advice.