Land Registry Office – Windsor, ON

Essex Land Registry Office (No. 12)

Real Property Registration

• Digital Services: This office serves as the administrative centre for land registration in Essex County. While physical counter services have been significantly reduced in favor of the OnLand digital platform, the office supports the electronic registration system used by lawyers and financial institutions to record property transfers, mortgages, and discharges.
• Title Searching: The registry maintains the official record of land ownership. Individuals and professionals can access the Parcel Register to view the current owner, legal description, and any registered encumbrances (liens, easements) on a property. This ‘guaranteed title’ system under the Land Titles Act ensures the security of real estate transactions in Windsor.
• Survey Plans: The office holds deposited Reference Plans (R-Plans) and Plans of Subdivision, which are essential for determining property boundaries, resolving fencing disputes, and planning new developments.

Access and Operations

• Kiosk Access: For those without internet access, the ServiceOntario location at 949 McDougall Street may offer self-service kiosks to access the OnLand portal. Staff can assist with navigation but cannot provide legal advice or interpret the abstract for users.
• Historical Records: Beyond active titles, the registry preserves historical abstract books and instrument images, providing a lineage of property history dating back to the 19th century, which is vital for genealogical and environmental research.