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The Global Insight

Are oil and gas leases recorded?

Author

James Williams

Updated on March 13, 2026

Landowners who are considering purchasing, or have already purchased a property can search their county Register of Deeds registry to determine if an oil and gas lease is recorded. A search of the public records at the county register of deeds office is necessary.

Are oil and gas royalties community property in Texas?

Oil and Gas Leases In Texas, income earned from separate property during a marriage is usually considered community property. However, this rule doesn’t apply when one spouse leases his or her mineral interests to an energy or oil and gas company.

How often are oil and gas royalties paid?

Oil & gas royalties are paid monthly, consistent with the normal accounting cycle of the producer, unless the obligation does not meet the minimum check requirement for that particular state. These laws are generally known as aggregate pay laws, usually set at either $25 or $100.

How do I check my oil rights?

To check if you own mineral rights, then you should start by getting a copy of your deed. If you do not already have a copy, then go to the county Recorder’s office and get a copy. Look to see if you were conveyed fee simple title to the property.

Are mineral rights considered real property in Texas?

Under Texas law, ownership of land includes ownership of minerals under the surface of the land. Mineral rights are a form of real property, and they are governed by the same principles of marital property law as other real estate.

How much are mineral rights worth in Texas?

As a general rule of thumb, the value will nearly always be less than $1,000/acre. In most cases, the mineral rights value in Texas for non-producing minerals will be $0 to $250. It really depends on how long ago you were leased or if you have current offers.

How long does an oil and gas lease last?

This is a short paragraph in the typical oil and gas lease, but it is arguably one of the most important. Oil and gas exploration companies generally want to hold the leased mineral rights for a period of years until they actually begin drilling.

Why do oil and gas companies want to lease the land?

Oil and gas exploration companies generally want to hold the leased mineral rights for a period of years until they actually begin drilling. This could be because the price for natural gas is down, or their rigs are operating elsewhere, or for any number of business reasons.

When to ask questions about inherited mineral rights?

Often, the arrival in the mail of an oil and gas lease proposal is the first time people even become aware of inherited mineral rights, and thus have reason to educate themselves about the matter. Generally seen as a welcome inquiry, a lease proposal prompts a number of questions. Is this a fair deal? Do other family members know about this?

Who is the Landman for oil and gas?

Typically, an oil and gas landman is the professional discipline that researches and identifies mineral rights ownership. This process of researching the ownership is commonly known as running (researching) title. Landman – Who’s That?