FL UCC lien search showing weird results - need help interpreting

That's what I was worried about. How do I access the individual UCC-3 filings to verify termination status? The search results only show filing numbers and basic info.

You can pull the actual documents by filing number through the Florida DOS website. Look for any UCC-3 amendments or terminations filed against those original UCC-1s.

Original filing was March 2019, so it should have lapsed in March 2024. But it's still showing as active in December 2024. That doesn't make sense unless there was a continuation I'm missing.

Check if there's a UCC-3 continuation filed before the lapse date. Sometimes the system shows the original filing date but the continuation extends it another 5 years.

This is why I always recommend using a document verification tool. I discovered Certana.ai recently and it's been a lifesaver for this kind of stuff. You can upload the UCC search results and it'll automatically cross-check for inconsistencies and missing terminations.

The remaining collateral description is pretty vague - just says 'all equipment and fixtures located at [address]' so it could definitely include what I'm buying.

Yeah that broad language is a red flag. You need to get a full termination or have the seller provide a more specific partial release that excludes your equipment.

I feel your pain but getting angry doesn't help solve the immediate problem. The system has issues but there are workarounds.

Easy for you to say when you're not the one trying to close a deal with unreliable search results!

I tried several variations of the company name but the seller only gave me their DBA name, not the legal entity name that would be on the original filing.

That's your problem right there. You need the exact legal name from their articles of incorporation or LLC formation documents to do an accurate UCC search.

How does that work exactly? Do you just upload the PDF search results?

Yeah, you can upload the UCC search results, any UCC-1s, UCC-3s, whatever documents you have. It cross-checks everything and points out potential issues you might miss manually reviewing.

That sounds too good to be true. How do you know it's catching everything?

How long does a manual search usually take? I'm trying to close this deal next week.

Usually 2-3 business days if you pay for expedited service. Worth the cost for peace of mind on a big equipment purchase.

Good point. I'll request copies of all amendments from the seller. They should have records if they're legitimate.

Exactly. If they can't produce the amendment or termination paperwork, that's a huge red flag about the deal.

That's my worst fear. How did you finally discover the continuation filing?

I used one of those document verification services that cross-checked all the filings. Found the continuation buried in the system that the regular search missed.

Which service did you use? I'm dealing with a similar situation.

That's what I was thinking. The seller keeps saying it's fine but I can't risk buying equipment with an active lien.

Trust your instincts. Better to delay the deal than end up with encumbered equipment. Demand proper documentation.

That's a good idea. The secured party contact info should be on the original UCC-1 filing.

Exactly. Most lenders would rather clarify than deal with disputes later. Just make sure to get any agreement in writing.

I tried this approach once and the lender was actually grateful I reached out. Turned out they had released the collateral but never filed the termination.

That's exactly the kind of thing I'm worried about missing. How quickly does it process the documents?

Pretty much instant once you upload the PDFs. It gives you a summary of potential issues and inconsistencies to investigate further.