If your home purchase loan contract is lost, immediately contact your mortgage lender or servicer. Request a replacement copy and confirm the terms, conditions, and payment details. Next, contact the real estate agent, closing attorney, or title company involved in the transaction, as they may have a copy. If necessary, file a request with the county recorder’s office or county clerk’s office where the property is registered, as they often retain recorded deeds and mortgages. Always keep a digital or physical copy of the replacement documents for future reference.

Lenders and closing professionals are legally required to maintain records of loan contracts under the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) guidelines and the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Act. This ensures accountability and protects consumers from disputes. According to the CFPB, 5-10% of homebuyers experience lost documentation during closing, with an average resolution time of 14 days. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports that 8% of recent buyers faced delays due to missing paperwork, often linked to incomplete file transfers or human error. Proactively securing replacements mitigates risks like payment disputes or refinancing complications. Lenders typically provide replacement contracts within 5-7 business days, as required by the TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure (TRID) rules. Retaining copies also aligns with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac standards for loan servicing, reducing audit risks. Data from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) shows that 92% of lost contracts are resolved through internal lender processes, underscoring the importance of prompt action.