What Title Services are Included in a Virginia Title Search?

When buying or refinancing a property in Virginia, conducting a thorough title search is a crucial step in the process. A title search helps ensure that the property’s title is clear of any legal issues that could affect ownership rights. Title companies and abstractors perform these searches to protect buyers, lenders, and investors from potential risks. But what exactly does a Virginia title search include? Here’s a breakdown of the essential services involved.

1. Current Owner Search

A current owner search identifies the present legal owner of the property and verifies the chain of title. This type of search typically covers a limited period, such as the last deed transfer, and is useful for transactions where a full historical search is unnecessary.

2. Full Title Search (Chain of Title)

A full title search, also known as a chain of title search, traces the property’s ownership history back for a specified period, often 40 to 60 years. This search helps confirm that past transfers were legally executed and that no gaps or irregularities exist in the title.

3. Deed Search

A deed search examines all recorded deeds associated with the property. This helps establish ownership and verify that there are no discrepancies in property transfers, such as missing signatures or incorrect legal descriptions.

4. Lien and Encumbrance Search

A title search includes checking for any liens, mortgages, judgments, or unpaid taxes that could affect the property. Identifying outstanding encumbrances ensures that any issues are resolved before closing to prevent future legal complications.

5. Easements and Restrictions Search

Easements and restrictive covenants can impact property use. A title search reveals any recorded easements that may grant third parties access to the property, such as utility companies or adjacent landowners. It also discloses any restrictive covenants that limit how the property can be used.

6. Tax Assessment and Status Check

A title search verifies the property's tax history, ensuring that all property taxes have been paid. If there are delinquent taxes or special assessments, these must be addressed before closing.

7. Judgments and Legal Issues Review

This service examines court records for any judgments, bankruptcies, or pending legal actions involving the property owner that could cloud the title. If any are found, they may need to be cleared before transferring ownership.

8. UCC Filings Search

For commercial properties, a Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) search may be conducted to check for any security interests or financial claims against the property’s fixtures or improvements.

9. Survey and Boundary Examination

While not always included in a standard title search, some buyers request a survey review to confirm property boundaries, easements, and potential encroachments.

Why a Thorough Title Search Matters

A comprehensive title search helps protect buyers, lenders, and sellers from legal disputes and financial losses. If issues arise, they can often be addressed before closing, ensuring a smooth transaction. Partnering with an experienced title company, like Security American Title, LLC, ensures that your title search is accurate, efficient, and compliant with Virginia’s real estate laws.

Need a title search for your property transaction? Contact Security American Title, LLC today to learn more about our fast, reliable, and affordable title services!