property
owners title policy
An owner's title policy is title insurance that protects the buyer (owner) against financial loss from covered title defects that existed before the policy date, such as forged documents, undisclosed heirs, or recording errors. Coverage generally equals the purchase price, lasts as long as the owner or heirs hold an interest, and is paid for with a one-time premium at closing. Who customarily pays for it varies by state and local practice.
- Exam tip
- Owner's policy protects the buyer up to the purchase price; lender's policy protects the lender up to the loan balance. Neither covers defects arising after the policy date.
- Example
- Two years after buying, an owner faces a claim from an heir omitted from a prior probate; the owner's title policy covers the defense and loss.
Related terms & state variants
Sources
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Last verified: 2026-10-23