Real estate conveyances in Massachusetts are governed under Massachusetts General Laws Chapters 183 and 184.

Quitclaim deeds with limited covenants are used to transfer the rights, title, and interest in real estate, if any, from the grantor (seller) to the grantee (buyer). When using this kind of deed, the grantor "covenants that the property is free from all encumbrances," and that he will "warrant and defend the same to the grantee forever against the lawful claims and demands of all persons claiming by, through or under the grantor, but against none other" (G.L.c. 183 sec. 17). Because of these covenants, this form is valid as-is for use as a special warranty deed in Massachusetts.

In addition to meeting all state and local standards for recorded documents, a lawful deed identifies the name, address, and marital status of each grantor and grantee (G.L.c. 183 sec. 6). State law requires that all land records contain information on how the grantee will hold title (G.L.c. 184 sec. 7). For Massachusetts residential property, the primary methods for holding title are tenancy in common, joint tenancy, and tenancy by the entirety. A grant of ownership of real estate to two or more persons, regardless of marital status, is presumed to create a tenancy in common, unless the deed expressly states otherwise (G.L.c. 184 sec. 7).

As with any conveyance of real estate, a quitclaim deed with limited covenants requires a complete legal description of the parcel. The deed must state the amount of the full consideration, or the total price for the conveyance (G.L.c. 183 sec. 6). Based on the consideration paid, an excise tax (also known as a transfer tax or stamp tax) is collected from the seller (G.L.c. 64D sec. 1,2).

Record the completed deed at the local County Registry of Deeds office. Some counties (Berkshire, Bristol, Essex, Middlesex, Worcester) are split into two or more recording districts. Make sure to record the deed in the correct recording district. If the deed pertains to registered land, submit the deed to the Registry District of the Land Court. Include all relevant affidavits, forms, and fees along with the deed for recording. For guidance related to supplemental documentation, speak with the local Registry of Deeds office.

This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal advice. Contact a lawyer with questions about quitclaim deeds with limited covenants or transfers of real property in Massachusetts.

(Massachusetts QCD with Covenants Package includes form, guidelines, and completed example)

How to Use This Form

Select your county from the list above
Download the county-specific form
Fill in the required information
Have the document notarized if required
Record with your county recorder's office

What Others Like You Are Saying

— Cynthia E.

"good source"

— Karri P.

"Great service and easy to purchase exactly what you want."

— Daniel L.

"so far appears to meet my needs!"

— Jennifer E.

"Very fast Process to get this to ROD"

— Rosie R.

"LOVE THIS!! I am a REALTORand from time to time I have had to take documents for filing. I'm so glad…"

Common Uses for Quitclaim Deed with Covenants

Transfer a partial interest in a property
Convey real estate as part of an estate plan
Transfer property into or out of a trust
Add a family member to a property title

Compare other Massachusetts deed forms and documents

Quitclaim Deed Gift Deed Warranty Deed Grant Deed Correction Deed Easement Deed Termination of Easement General Durable Power of Attorney Specific Durable Power of Attorney for the Sale of Real Property Specific Durable Power of Attorney for the Purchase of Real Property Mortgage Deed and Promissory Note Discharge of Mortgage Assignment of Mortgage Memorandum of Agreement for Purchase and Sale of Real Estate Full Release of Memorandum of Agreement for Purchase and Sale of Real Estate Disclaimer of Interest Trustee Deed Personal Representative Deed of Sale Personal Representative Deed of Distribution Notice of Contract Notice of Identification Statement of Account Notice of Termination Notice of Substantial Completion Bond for Written Contract Dissolution by Bond Dissolution of Lien Contractor Partial Waiver and Subordination of Lien Contractor Full Conditional Lien Waiver Subcontractor Partial Waiver and Subordination of Lien Subcontractor Full Conditional Lien Waiver Estate Tax Affidavit Trustee Certificate

Important: County-Specific Forms

Our quitclaim deed with covenants forms are specifically formatted for each county in Massachusetts.

After selecting your county, you'll receive forms that meet all local recording requirements, ensuring your documents will be accepted without delays or rejection fees.

Back to Massachusetts Forms