Home »
It’s quite common for properties to have title defects and many property owners would not realise there is a problem until they come to sell or re-finance. When a buyer or lender’s solicitor is carrying out their due diligence, they may uncover a title defect which could impact on the property’s value or its future marketability. Sometimes these defects can be put right however it’s also often agreed to deal with the defect by obtaining indemnity insurance.
The term ‘title defect’ is very broad but is generally taken to mean that either there is a potential for a third party to make an adverse claim against the property, or that there is something missing from the property’s title which should be there. Examples of title defects are:
This is not an exhaustive list, there are many other types of title defects that could affect a property with differing levels of risk depending on the nature and extent of the problem.
Often property transactions are time-critical. An indemnity policy can be a very quick solution to an identified title defect which allows a sale or re-finance to proceed without delay. Indemnity insurance is generally available at relatively low premiums and could be cheaper than the time spent by lawyers in investigating and trying to correct the problem.
It’s important to be aware that indemnity insurance does not fix the defect, it insures against any loss which might arise in the future due to the defect. Many people are reassured by knowing they have that financial compensation in place if there was ever an issue- however some would prefer the defect to be remedied rather than relying on insurance.
Indemnity insurance policies will always have a limit of the amount of loss they will cover- this is usually set at the value of the property. They are also often subject to conditions and there is a risk a policy could be invalidated if these are not complied with.
Sometimes a title defect cannot be covered by insurance if it is considered too great a risk by the indemnity insurer.
The cost of indemnity insurance varies depending on the nature of the defect, the value of the property and the potential risk (as assessed by the insurers). There are many indemnity insurers in the market however and they so generally premiums are competitive. In the vast majority of cases, the premium is a one-off premium for a policy that will last for years and that can be passed on to future owners.
If an indemnity policy could be a good solution for a transaction, we would contact indemnity insurers to explain the problem and obtain quotes. The insurer may need some specific questions answered by the property owner or copies of supporting documents to help them decide if they can offer cover. Sometimes the owner is required to make a statutory declaration to confirm the facts- if so then we can draft the declaration.
If you need any advice on indemnity insurance or title defects, please contact a member of our commercial property law team in confidence here or on 02920 829 100 for a free initial call to see how they can help.
To speak to one of our experts today, please contact us on 02920 829 100 or by using our Contact Us form for a free initial chat to see how we can help.
I have worked with Darwin Gray for a number of years and the level of service, professionalism and timely response is second to none. I would highly recommend Darwin Gray to any business.”
Darwin Gray have provided us with a first-class service for many years now. They really take the time to understand our business and develop relationships which results in advice and support that is contextualised and effective.”
We have worked with Darwin Gray for several years and have always found their services and advice to be first class.”
An extremely professional and sincere company who make time for your queries and understand the need to break down certain facts and information to ensure everything is understood perfectly. I would highly recommend the company to anyone looking for any type of legal advice”
PSS has worked with Darwin Gray for many years. We have always received an excellent service. Prompt and professional advice and support.”
We have used several departments within DG recently and we have been very pleased with an effective, efficient and down to earth service. Very happy thus far and I expect that we will continue to use DG.”
Darwin Gray offer us truly superb services. Very professional, quick and services available bilingually which is very important to us, highly recommend.”
My “go to” in urgent and time sensitive cases for direction, support and advice. The team are quick to respond to calls or emails for advice and support on all matters. Always explain complex matters in a way a lay person can easily understand.”
Darwin Gray have acted for myself and my company over a number of years and at all times we have been treated with a professional manner yet maintain a common-sense approach at all levels. We couldn’t recommend them more highly.”
We have been clients of Darwin Gray for many years; they’ve always dealt with all of our legal matters with such professionalism. They work around us, even during awkward hours, and we feel confident we can always rely on them.”
Darwin Gray has been acting for Siltbuster for more than ten years. We would have no hesitation in recommending Darwin Gray to other organisations small or large.”
From the very first conversation, I had no doubt that Darwin Gray should be the firm to receive our instructions on this matter. I would have no hesitation in recommending Darwin Gray.”
We regularly instruct Darwin Gray. Their service in dealing with our transactional matters and disputes is always professional, prompt and efficient.”
Darwin Gray guided me through a long and extended process that would have been much more difficult had it not been for their patience and constant support.”
Excellent and efficient service. Great result achieved, highly professional and transparent on pricing. Would recommend.”
Superb legal service provided. Exceeded expectations. They went above and beyond in order to provide the best service possible.”
Very professional and understanding. They were a calming influence in a very troubling situation and they brought it to a very successful conclusion”
We have used Darwin Gray and have been seriously impressed. The personal approach is what Darwin Gray are excelling on and is the reason why we will continue to work with them in the future.”
