Title Insurance

Understand how title insurance protects Canadian property buyers from legal defects, liens, and fraud after a real estate purchase.

Title Insurance
Escrow – Definition, Meaning, and Examples in Canadian Real Estate



What is Title Insurance?

Title insurance is a policy that protects property buyers and lenders against financial loss related to defects or issues with the legal ownership of a property.

Why Title Insurance Matters in Real Estate

In Canadian real estate, title insurance provides peace of mind by covering risks not always detectable through a title search. It protects against issues such as:

  • Undisclosed liens or encumbrances
  • Errors in public records or surveys
  • Title fraud or identity theft
  • Zoning or permit violations discovered after purchase
There are two main types:
  • Owner’s policy: protects the buyer’s interest in the property
  • Lender’s policy: protects the mortgage lender’s interest

Title insurance is often a one-time premium paid at closing. It complements, but does not replace, a thorough legal review and title search conducted by a real estate lawyer.

Understanding title insurance ensures that buyers are protected from unforeseen legal claims or defects that may threaten their ownership rights.

Example of Title Insurance

After closing, a buyer discovers a previously registered construction lien. Their title insurance covers the legal costs and settlement to clear the issue.

Key Takeaways

  • Protects against ownership-related risks.
  • Covers fraud, liens, and clerical errors.
  • Available for buyers and lenders.
  • One-time cost added at closing.
  • Complements lawyer due diligence.

Related Terms

  • Title Search
  • Lien
  • Encumbrance
  • Legal Liability
  • Real Estate Lawyer

Additional Terms

Blight

Blight refers to the deterioration, neglect, and disrepair of properties or neighborhoods that cause economic decline and reduce livability. Blighted. more

Community Land Trust (CLT)

A community land trust (CLT) is a non-profit organization that owns land to preserve long-term housing affordability. Homes are sold or rented at. more

Co-Housing Community

A co-housing community is a residential model where individuals or families live in private homes but share common facilities such as kitchens,. more

Chain of Title

Chain of title is the chronological record of property ownership transfers, from the original owner to the current owner. It documents deeds,. more

Carbon Offset Credits

Carbon offset credits in real estate are tradable credits earned by properties or developments that reduce greenhouse gas emissions through. more

Build-to-Rent

Build-to-rent refers to residential developments specifically constructed for the rental market rather than for sale. These projects are typically. more

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