Massachusetts § 12F - Real estate unassessed where right or titled unascertained; lien for expenses to determine ownership

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 12F — Real estate unassessed where right or titled unascertained; lien for expenses to determine ownership, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 12F. Real estate unassessed where right or titled unascertained; lien for expenses to determine ownership

Section 12F. Wherever real estate has been unassessed because the right or title thereto has been doubtful or unascertained because of missing records or otherwise, and a municipality has conducted a search and has determined the record ownership of said real estate, the said real estate shall become subject to a lien for the expenditures incurred by said municipality in the determination of said ownership. The assessor of said municipality shall forthwith cause to be recorded in the registry of deeds for the county or district in which the real estate is located a statement containing the name of the owner or owners of said real estate, an adequate description thereof, and the amount of said expenditures incurred, for which amount a lien on said real estate shall become effective as of the time and date of its recording. No such lien shall be effective against a bona fide purchaser or other transferee without notice of such lien. The recording fee for such statement shall be added to and become a part of the expenditures constituting said lien.

Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 12F

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 12F cover?

Section 12F ("Real estate unassessed where right or titled unascertained; lien for expenses to determine ownership") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Massachusetts § 12F?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 12F" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.

How does Massachusetts § 12F apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.