Warranty Deed in California

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: April 2026

California Requirements

Grantor's signature must be acknowledged before a notary public
Preliminary Change of Ownership Report (PCOR) must accompany recording
Full legal description of the property required (not just street address)
Documentary transfer tax declaration must appear on the face of the deed
Title insurance is strongly recommended even with warranty covenants

Filing Location

County Recorder's Office in the county where the property sits

Filing Fee

$15–$50 base recording + $1.10 per $1,000 documentary transfer tax

Statute Reference

Cal. Civ. Code § 1092 (form) and Cal. Rev. & Tax. Code § 11911 (transfer tax)

How to Complete This Form

1Obtain a blank quitclaim deed form that complies with your state's requirements.
2Enter the full legal name and address of the grantor (the person transferring the property).
3Enter the full legal name and address of the grantee (the person receiving the property).
4Include the complete legal description of the property (obtained from the current deed or county records).
5Sign the deed in the presence of a notary public and any required witnesses.
6File the deed with the county recorder's office along with any required transfer tax forms and fees.
7Keep a copy of the recorded deed for your records.

Download Form Template

Download a template for the Warranty Deed customized with California-specific requirements and instructions.

Warranty Deed in Other States

Texas Florida New York Illinois Pennsylvania Ohio Georgia North Carolina Michigan Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas Colorado Connecticut Delaware Hawaii Idaho Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine

Other Forms in California

Quitclaim Deed Power of Attorney Last Will and Testament Living Will / Advance Directive LLC Operating Agreement Residential Lease Agreement Eviction Notice Small Claims Court Complaint Divorce Petition Name Change Petition Bill of Sale Prenuptial Agreement Rental Application Demand Letter Affidavit of Service Promissory Note Non-Disclosure Agreement Non-Compete Agreement Child Support Modification Petition

When to Talk to a Lawyer

Your situation involves complex legal issues or significant financial consequences.
You are unsure whether the form meets your state's specific requirements.

This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.