What is title work?

Title work refers to the process of researching and verifying the legal ownership and history of a property, typically when it's being sold or refinanced. This process includes checking public records to ensure there are no outstanding liens, claims, or legal issues with the property's title. Title work is essential to confirm that the seller has the right to transfer ownership and to protect the buyer and lender from future disputes. It often culminates in the issuance of title insurance, which offers protection against potential title defects. Professionals such as title agents or companies usually handle this process.