What Is a Title Search?
By JC Pacific Corp Published 2026-09-01 Last professionally reviewed: September 2026
A title search is an examination of available public records and related information to identify ownership and matters that may affect the property's title.
What May Be Reviewed?
- Deeds
- Mortgages and deeds of trust
- Releases
- Tax liens
- Judgments
- Easements
- Restrictions
- Probate records
- Divorce-related documents
- Legal descriptions
- Recorded notices
- Other public records
What Is the Goal?
The search helps the title company determine:
- Current recorded ownership
- Requirements before coverage
- Existing liens
- Recorded exceptions
- Documents affecting the property
- Whether additional investigation is needed
Can a Search Find Everything?
No. Public records can contain errors, indexing problems or fraudulent documents. Some interests may not appear clearly in the available record. Title insurance addresses certain covered risks that remain after the search.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an online owner search a title search?
No. A basic public-record or property-data search does not replace professional title examination.
Does a title search inspect the property?
No.
How far back does the search go?
The scope depends on title-company practices, property, applicable standards and identified issues.
A title search helps identify what must be cleared, reviewed or excepted before a policy can be issued.
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JC Pacific Corp is an Irvine-based Southern California brokerage helping buyers navigate offers, escrow, and financing. Tell us what you are looking for and we will point you to current options across the region.
A note on legal advice: These guides provide general, educational information about California real estate practice. They are not legal advice and do not create an attorney-client relationship. Mortgage information is general education, not individualized lending, tax or legal guidance. For advice about your specific offer, contract, closing or financing, consult a qualified California real estate attorney and a qualified mortgage professional.