A mineral deed transfers all ownership rights in the assets under the surface of a tract of land—including oil, gas, coal, hydrocarbons, metals, and minerals—from the grantor (seller) to the grantee (buyer). The transfer also includes all rights to receive royalties, profits, or payments related to the assets under the surface of the land.
In West Virginia, a mineral deed is a legal document that conveys ownership of minerals and other subsurface resources from the grantor to the grantee. This includes not only the physical minerals but also the rights to any royalties, profits, or payments derived from the extraction and sale of these resources. The deed must be in writing, signed by the grantor, and should clearly describe the property and the interest being conveyed. It must also be acknowledged before a notary and recorded in the county where the property is located to be effective against third parties. West Virginia law requires that the deed adhere to specific formalities to be valid, and it is subject to both state statutes and case law governing property transfers. It's important for both grantors and grantees to understand that the transfer of mineral rights can have significant tax implications and may affect surface rights, so it is advisable to consult with an attorney experienced in West Virginia property law before executing a mineral deed.