A title search is an examination of all public records pertaining to the property. The search will include a “chain of title” which reviews the history of ownership starting with the current owner and going back typically 50 years. In addition, the search will reveal any title-related problems with the property and report all publicly recorded liens and encumbrances against the property.

However, it has become common for many title insurance  companies to provide a search only for the time during which you have owned the property. Be sure you are getting a valuable product by ordering your search for title insurance from Abstract & Title.

When a search is complete, the information is gathered on a commitment document for title insurance. This document shows any defects to the property that would be listed as exceptions to the policy as well as requirements necessary to be resolved before the policy can be issued.