What Is Title Insurance?
When buying a home, your title—the legal right to own and use the property—can be clouded by hidden issues: old liens, unknown heirs, recording errors, or even fraud. Unlike typical insurance policies, which cover future risks, title insurance protects against issues from the past—preserving your ownership and protecting your investment.
Why It Matters in Rhode Island
In Rhode Island, where many properties have long histories, hidden title issues are more common than you’d think. Even a thorough title search can overlook certain defects, such as unpaid taxes, boundary problems, or faulty recordings. A one-time premium at closing provides lifetime protection, giving homeowners peace of mind without ongoing costs.
Owner’s Policy vs. Lender’s Policy
Owner’s Policy: Optional but vital—it protects you (the buyer) for as long as you own the home.
Lender’s Policy: Required by most mortgages; it protects only the lender’s financial interest.
While lender’s title insurance is mandatory, owners gain real confidence and security by opting in—especially in mature markets like ours.
Real Risks Covered
Title insurance safeguards against a range of issues, such as:
• Unreleased liens (e.g., from contractors or previous loans)
• Forged or fraudulent documents
• Legal heirs emerging post-sale
• Recording errors in public records
• Boundary or easement disputes [libtitle.com], [libtitle.com]
If one of these unforeseen issues arises, insurance covers your legal defense and any associated financial losses.
How Liberty Title Protects You
At Liberty Title, we manage the entire process with precision and transparency:
Thorough Title Search & Examination — Identifying hidden risks in historical records
Clear to Close Solutions — Resolving liens and easements, correcting errors
Policy Explanation — Ensuring you’re informed about what’s covered
Seamless Closing Experience — Digital options available for convenience [libtitle.com], [libtitle.com]
The Bottom Line
Title insurance is more than a closing formality—it’s a critical safeguard. Buyer or lender, owner or borrower, protecting your title means protecting your future. For a stress-free closing and long-term peace of mind, choose Liberty Title—your trusted partner from search to settlement.
📞 Call us at (401) 751‑8090 or visit libtitle.com to learn how we make title insurance clear, comprehensive, and convenient.
