Henrico County Property Records

What Is Henrico County Property Records

Henrico County property records are official documents maintained by county government offices that contain detailed information about real estate parcels within the jurisdiction. These records document the history of ownership, physical characteristics, and financial obligations associated with properties located in Henrico County, Virginia. Property records serve as the official legal documentation regarding real estate within the county boundaries.

The Real Estate Assessment Division of Henrico County maintains comprehensive property records that include:

• Ownership information and transfer history
• Property descriptions and physical characteristics
• Assessment values for taxation purposes
• Sales history and transaction details
• Parcel identification numbers
• Land use classifications
• Improvement details (structures on the property)

These records are maintained pursuant to Virginia Code § 58.1-3331, which requires localities to maintain accurate assessment records for all real property within their jurisdiction. The primary purpose of these records is to establish a basis for property taxation and to provide an official record of ownership and property characteristics.

Henrico County Real Estate Assessment Division
4301 E. Parham Road
Henrico, VA 23228
(804) 501-4300
Henrico County Real Estate Database

Are Property Records Public Information In Henrico County?

Property records in Henrico County are considered public information in accordance with Virginia's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the Virginia Public Records Act. Non-confidential real estate assessment records are explicitly designated as public information under Virginia law § 2.2-3700, which establishes the public's right to access government records.

The following property record information is available to the public:

• Property owner names
• Property addresses
• Assessment values
• Sales information
• Property characteristics
• Tax information
• Recorded deeds and mortgages

Certain limited exceptions to public disclosure may apply to protect personal privacy or security. For example, pursuant to Virginia Code § 2.2-3705.2, records containing information that would jeopardize public safety may be withheld. Additionally, certain personal identifying information may be redacted from public records.

Members of the public may access these records through:

• In-person visits to the Henrico County Circuit Court Clerk's Office
• Online databases maintained by the county
• Written requests submitted to the appropriate county department

The online real estate data portal provides a disclaimer regarding the public nature of this information and its appropriate use. The county maintains these records in compliance with state transparency laws while balancing privacy considerations.

How To Search Property Records in Henrico County in 2025

Henrico County offers multiple methods for searching property records in 2025. The county has implemented several user-friendly systems to facilitate public access to these important documents. Individuals seeking property information may utilize the following official channels:

The primary search methods include:

• Online Database Access: The Henrico County Real Estate Database provides 24/7 access to property records. Users may search by address, owner name, parcel ID, or map reference.

• In-Person Research: Citizens may visit the Circuit Court Clerk's Office to conduct research with assistance from county staff.

• Geographic Information System (GIS): The county's GIS portal allows users to search property records using interactive maps and spatial data.

To conduct a search using the county's online database, users should:

1. Navigate to the Henrico County Real Estate Database
2. Select the desired search criteria (address, owner name, etc.)
3. Enter the relevant information
4. Review the search results
5. Select specific properties to view detailed information

For in-person assistance with property record searches, citizens may visit:

Henrico County Circuit Court Clerk's Office
4301 E. Parham Road
Henrico, VA 23228
(804) 501-4202
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) department also provides mapping tools that can be used to locate and identify properties throughout the county.

How To Find Property Records in Henrico County Online?

Henrico County provides comprehensive online access to property records through several digital platforms. These electronic resources have been developed to enhance public accessibility and streamline the process of obtaining property information. The county maintains multiple online portals that allow users to access different types of property records.

The primary online resources include:

• Real Estate Assessment Database: This searchable database contains assessment values, ownership information, and property characteristics. Users can search by address, owner name, or parcel identification number.

• Land Records System: The Circuit Court Clerk's Office maintains an online index of recorded documents including deeds, mortgages, and liens.

• GIS Mapping Portal: This interactive mapping system allows users to visualize property boundaries, zoning designations, and other spatial data.

• Tax Information Portal: Citizens can access property tax records, including current and historical tax bills.

To access these online resources, users should:

1. Visit the Henrico County website
2. Navigate to the appropriate department page (Real Estate Assessment, Circuit Court Clerk, etc.)
3. Select the desired online service
4. Follow the on-screen instructions for searching and retrieving records

The county's online real estate data system provides a user-friendly interface for accessing property information. Additionally, the county offers online tax bill access for property owners seeking information about their tax obligations.

Can You Look Up Henrico County Property Records for Free?

Henrico County provides free access to basic property records through several public platforms. In accordance with Virginia's commitment to government transparency, the county has established multiple no-cost options for citizens to access essential property information. These free services are designed to meet the needs of most users seeking standard property data.

The following free resources are available:

• Online Real Estate Database: The county's primary property record database is available at no cost through the county website. This resource provides access to assessment values, ownership information, and property characteristics.

• Public Access Terminals: Computer terminals are available for public use at the Henrico County Administration Building and public libraries throughout the county.

• GIS Mapping System: The county's online mapping portal provides free access to property boundaries, zoning information, and other spatial data.

While basic property record searches are free, certain specialized services may incur fees:

• Certified copies of documents: $2.50 per document plus $0.50 per page
• Extensive research assistance: May incur hourly fees
• Large volume data requests: May require payment of reasonable fees

The Real Estate Database provides free access to comprehensive property information. For more specialized needs, the Land Records Recording service provides information about obtaining official copies of recorded documents.

What's Included in a Henrico County Property Record?

Henrico County property records contain comprehensive information about real estate parcels within the county. These records are maintained by multiple county departments and collectively provide a detailed profile of each property. The information contained in these records serves various governmental and public purposes, including taxation, land use planning, and property transfers.

Standard property records in Henrico County include:

• Ownership Information:

  • Current owner name(s)
  • Previous owner history
  • Date of acquisition
  • Type of ownership (individual, joint, trust, etc.)

• Property Identification:

  • Parcel identification number (PIN)
  • Legal description
  • Street address
  • Tax map reference number

• Physical Characteristics:

  • Land area (acreage or square footage)
  • Building size and dimensions
  • Number of rooms, bedrooms, and bathrooms
  • Construction type and quality
  • Year built and effective age
  • Improvement details

• Valuation Information:

  • Current assessed value (land and improvements)
  • Historical assessment values
  • Recent sales information
  • Comparable sales data

• Tax Information:

  • Current tax rate
  • Tax payment history
  • Special assessments or exemptions

• Land Use Information:

  • Zoning classification
  • Permitted uses
  • Development restrictions
  • Easements and rights-of-way

The Real Estate Database provides access to these comprehensive property records. Additional specialized information may be available through the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) department.

How Long Does Henrico County Keep Property Records?

Henrico County maintains property records in perpetuity in accordance with Virginia state law and county record retention policies. These records constitute the permanent legal history of real estate within the county and are preserved to ensure continuity of ownership information and property characteristics over time. The retention of these records serves important governmental and public interests.

The county's record retention practices include:

• Deed Records: Maintained permanently from the county's founding to the present day
• Assessment Records: Preserved indefinitely, with historical assessment data available for research purposes
• Tax Records: Retained according to schedules established by the Library of Virginia, typically 5-7 years for payment records
• Building Permits and Inspections: Maintained for the life of the structure plus additional years as required by law
• Plats and Surveys: Preserved permanently as part of the county's land records

The preservation methods for these records have evolved over time:

• Historical records (pre-1980s): Maintained in bound volumes and microfilm
• Transitional records (1980s-2000s): Combination of paper, microfilm, and early digital formats
• Contemporary records (2000s-present): Primarily digital with redundant backup systems

The Circuit Court Clerk's Office maintains the official land records for the county pursuant to Virginia Code § 17.1-242, which establishes the clerk's duty to record and preserve these documents. The Land Records Recording service provides information about accessing historical property records.

How To Find Liens on Property In Henrico County?

Liens on property in Henrico County are recorded as public documents and can be researched through several official channels. These encumbrances represent legal claims against property that must be satisfied when the property is sold. Henrico County maintains accessible records of various types of liens that may affect real estate within its jurisdiction.

The following methods are available for researching property liens:

• Circuit Court Clerk's Office: The primary repository for recorded liens, including judgment liens, mechanic's liens, and tax liens. Staff can assist with searches of the land records index.

• Online Land Records System: The county provides online access to an index of recorded documents, including liens. Users can search by property owner name, property address, or instrument number.

• Tax Department Records: For tax liens specifically, the Department of Finance maintains records of delinquent property taxes that constitute liens against real estate.

• Title Company Search: Professional title companies can conduct comprehensive lien searches for a fee.

Types of liens that may be discovered include:

• Mortgage liens
• Judgment liens
• Tax liens (federal, state, and local)
• Mechanic's liens
• Homeowners association liens
• Child support liens
• Special assessment liens

To conduct a lien search in person, visit:

Henrico County Circuit Court Clerk's Office
4301 E. Parham Road
Henrico, VA 23228
(804) 501-4202
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The Land Records Recording service provides additional information about researching liens and other encumbrances on property.

What Is Property Owner Rule In Henrico County?

The Property Owner Rule in Henrico County refers to the legal principles and local ordinances that govern property ownership rights and responsibilities within the jurisdiction. This framework establishes the relationship between property owners, their real estate, and the county government. The rule encompasses various aspects of property ownership, including taxation, land use, and maintenance requirements.

Key components of the Property Owner Rule include:

• Ownership Registration: Property owners must ensure that their ownership is properly recorded with the Circuit Court Clerk's Office. This registration establishes legal title and creates the basis for property taxation.

• Assessment Notification: Pursuant to Virginia Code § 58.1-3330, property owners must be notified of changes in their property assessment values. Owners have the right to appeal these assessments through established procedures.

• Tax Obligations: Property owners are responsible for paying real estate taxes as assessed by the county. The online tax bill system provides information about current tax obligations.

• Maintenance Requirements: County ordinances establish minimum standards for property maintenance, including regulations regarding:

  • Grass and vegetation height
  • Debris and trash removal
  • Structural integrity of buildings
  • Nuisance abatement

• Land Use Compliance: Property owners must adhere to zoning regulations and obtain appropriate permits for construction, renovation, or changes in property use.

• Disclosure Requirements: When selling property, owners must make certain disclosures about the property's condition as required by Virginia law.

The Property Owner Rule is administered by multiple county departments, including the Real Estate Assessment Division, the Department of Finance, and the Department of Community Revitalization. The Virginia Department of Taxation provides additional guidance on property owner rights and responsibilities at the state level.

Lookup Property Records in Henrico County

Search Henrico County Real Estate Database

Access Online Real Estate Data

Find Land Records Recording Information

View Online Tax Bills

Explore Geographic Information Systems

Visit Virginia Department of Taxation

Access Virginia Court System Resources