Title Insurance 2026: What It Covers, Costs & Do You Need It?
Title Insurance 2026: What It Covers, Costs & Do You Need It? Title insurance protects you if someone challenges your ownership of your home — due to hidden liens, fraud, or errors in public records. This guide explains what it covers, costs, and why it's essential. What Is Title Insurance? Insurance that protects against defects in a property's title (ownership history). Unlike other insurance: You pay once (at closing), coverage lasts as long as you own the property. It protects against PAST problems (not future). Two policies: Lender's policy (required by mortgage lender, protects lender) + Owner's policy (optional but recommended, protects you). Why it matters: Without it, you could lose your home or pay thousands to defend your ownership. What Does Title Insurance Cover? Liens: Unpaid taxes, contractor liens, HOA liens, child support liens from previous owner. Ownership disputes: Someone else claims they own your property (undisclosed heir, forged dee...