How do I file a declared homestead? Under California law, a homeowner is entitled to the protection of a certain amount of equity in the home that is his or her principal residence (home).Filing a homestead declaration typically requires three steps. Complete a homestead declaration form. To claim the exemption, the homeowner must make a one-time filing with the county assessor where the property is located. The Homestead Declaration must be recorded with the County Recorder to be valid. A Declaration of Homestead must be completed, signed, and notarized, in order to be recorded in the Clerk-Recorder's Office. After completing the form, you must file it with the County Recorder's office in the county where the property is located. RESOURCES. Cal. Before you use this form, fill in all blanks, and make whatever changes are appropriate and necessary to your particular transaction. Consult a lawyer if.