LAWCRESTTitle insurance lawyer in Mississauga
Your home is more than a purchase, it is a legal right of ownership. Title insurance helps protect that ownership from problems you cannot see today. Lawcrest explains your options in plain language and arranges the right coverage for buyers, owners and lenders across Mississauga and the GTA.
A title problem can surface years after you buy. Ask us about owner's title insurance before you close, since it is usually arranged at that time.
416-830-3369What is title insurance?
Title insurance is a policy that protects against certain losses caused by problems with the legal title to a property. Unlike most insurance, you generally pay a single premium when you buy or refinance, and the owner's coverage generally continues for as long as you own the property.
It does not insure against future events like a fire. It protects your right of ownership against specific title risks, within the limits of the policy.
There are two main types of policy. A lender's policy protects the bank and is usually required for a mortgage. An owner's policy protects you.
- BuyersAn owner policy is usually arranged by your lawyer at closing.
- Owners who are refinancingThe lender will require its own policy, and you can ask about yours.
- Lenders and investorsPolicies that protect mortgage and investment interests.
What title insurance can help protect against
Coverage depends on the specific policy, so we read it with you. These are common risks that policies may cover, subject to their terms and exclusions.
Title fraud and forgery
Someone uses a forged document or a stolen identity to sell or mortgage a property.
Errors in public records
Mistakes in the land registry or in how documents were registered.
Liens and unpaid debts
Certain registered claims or debts of previous owners that attach to the property.
Survey and boundary issues
Certain problems with boundaries, encroachments or survey matters.
Work orders and zoning issues
Certain municipal work orders and violations that predate your purchase.
Problems from past owners
Certain mistakes and unauthorized acts by previous owners that affect your title.
Legal defence costs
The insurer may pay to defend your title if a covered claim is made against it.
Your right to ownership
A single policy that is designed to protect your ownership interest in the home.
When should you speak to a lawyer?
The earlier, the better. Owner's title insurance is usually arranged at the time of purchase or refinance.
- When you make an offerWe can explain title insurance and the other protections available.
- Before closingWe order the policy and review any issues found in the title search.
- When you are refinancingThe lender will require its own policy, and we explain how it differs from yours.
- When you are unsure about a surveyWe explain how a survey and title insurance work together.
- When you suspect a problemIf something looks wrong with the title, act quickly.
How we arrange your title insurance
A clear process, with no surprises about what you are buying.
Explain your options
We explain the lender policy and owner policy, what each covers, and what it costs.
Search the title
We search title and review the registered documents to find issues that affect you or the policy.
Deal with any issues
Where problems appear, we work to resolve them before closing or advise you on how they may affect coverage.
Order the policy
We order the policy through the insurer as part of your closing.
Closing
The policy takes effect when the transaction is registered, and the premium is paid as part of your closing costs.
After closing
We send you a copy of your policy and explain how to keep it and how to make a claim if ever needed.
Costs and options
We explain the cost and the choices clearly, so you can decide with confidence.
One-time premiumPaid at closing
Title insurance is generally paid once, not every year. The premium depends on the insurer and the value of the property. We tell you the amount before closing.
Owner policy and lender policyTwo different protections
The lender policy protects the lender and is usually required for a mortgage. The owner policy protects you, and is usually optional but valuable.
Enhanced coverageAdditional protection
Some insurers offer enhanced options that broaden the protection, for a higher premium. We explain whether they make sense for you.
Survey and title insuranceDifferent tools
Title insurance can sometimes be used in place of a new survey, depending on the lender and the property. A survey still shows details that insurance does not.
No annual renewalsContinuing protection
An owner policy generally continues for as long as you or your heirs own the property, with no annual payment.
What title insurance does not cover
Every policy has limits. Knowing them helps you avoid false assumptions. We go through your policy with you.
- Problems you already know aboutIssues you were aware of before the policy took effect are usually excluded.
- Events after the policy dateNew problems that arise after you buy are generally not covered.
- Specific exclusions in the policyEach policy lists items that are excluded or limited.
- Physical condition of the buildingStructural or hidden defects are generally not title matters.
- Matters outside the policy termsCoverage depends on the exact wording and any limits.
Title fraud is a real risk
Fraudsters can use stolen identities and forged documents to sell or mortgage a home without the owner knowing. Title insurance can help protect against losses from this kind of fraud, within the terms of the policy.
Take care of your own protection too. Keep your personal information secure, watch for unusual mail about your property, and speak to us right away if anything looks wrong.
What to bring to your consultation
Do not worry if you do not have everything. Bring what you can, and we will tell you what else is useful.
- The agreement of purchase and sale, or your mortgage commitment
- Government-issued photo ID
- Any existing survey or reference plan
- Any existing title insurance policy
- Documents about permits, renovations and work done on the property
- Any letters or notices about the property
Why clients choose Lawcrest
You are trusting us to protect your ownership. This is how we earn that trust.
Plain-language advice
No jargon. You understand each step and each choice before we act.
Cost clarity
We tell you the premium and our fees before closing.
Careful title work
We search title and review the documents so issues are found early.
Confidential
What you tell us is protected by solicitor-client privilege.
Responsive
Your questions get answers, and you hear from us as your file moves.
Honest about limits
We explain what a policy covers and what it does not.
Regulated lawyers
Lawcrest is a professional corporation regulated by the Law Society of Ontario.
Local and accessible
Meet us at our Matheson Blvd office in Mississauga, or arrange a call.
Frequently asked questions
Still not sure? Call 416-830-3369 and we will talk it through.
Is title insurance mandatory?
Lenders usually require a lender policy to protect their mortgage. An owner policy is generally optional, but it protects you and is worth discussing with us.
How much does title insurance cost?
Premiums are paid once and depend on the insurer and the property value. We tell you the amount for your purchase before closing.
How long does the coverage last?
An owner policy generally continues for as long as you or your heirs own the property, with no annual payments, subject to the policy terms.
Does title insurance replace a survey?
Sometimes it can be used instead of a new survey, depending on the lender and the property. A survey can still show details that insurance does not. We advise what suits you.
Can I buy it later if I did not get it at closing?
In most cases owner title insurance is arranged when you buy or refinance. If you already own your home, call us and we will explain the options.
Does it cover title fraud?
Many policies help protect against losses from fraud and forgery that affect your title. Coverage depends on the policy, so we go through the wording with you.
What do I do if a problem arises?
Contact us and the insurer promptly, and do not ignore any notice. We help you understand your policy and the next steps.
Is my information confidential?
Yes. Your communications with us are protected by solicitor-client privilege.
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