Begin with what you already have.
Mineral files are often incomplete, especially after an inheritance or operator change. Do not delay organizing the property because one document is missing. Start with the most recent reliable record and work backward.
Ownership and title records
- Recorded mineral or royalty deed
- Warranty, special warranty or quitclaim deed containing mineral language
- Probate order, will or affidavit of heirship
- Trust certificate or relevant trust excerpt
- Entity formation or authority documents when an LLC or partnership owns the property
Lease and operator records
- Oil and gas lease or lease memorandum
- Division order
- Recent royalty check detail
- Operator owner statement or suspense notice
- County ad valorem tax statement for producing property
Property identifiers
- State and county
- Survey, abstract, section, block or township and range
- Lease, unit or well name
- Operator name and owner number
- Prior offer or correspondence identifying the property
Complete records are helpful, but a unit name, operator statement or recorded deed can provide the first dependable reference.
What not to send initially
A property evaluation generally does not require your Social Security number, bank credentials, account password or full unredacted tax return. Protect sensitive personal information unless it is later required through an appropriate secure process.
Retain copies of every document you provide and every agreement you sign. Store the final recorded deed and closing statement with your permanent property records.