Eastern Title and Settlement 2025 – Everything You Need to Know About Filing a Title Insurance Claim

Real estate transactions are exciting but can also be complex. Ensuring your property’s title is clear and legally protected is crucial, and that’s where Eastern Title and Settlement comes in. They provide title insurance and closing services to safeguard buyers, sellers, and lenders from potential ownership disputes.

If you ever need to file a title insurance claim, knowing the process is key. This guide breaks it down step by step, ensuring a smooth experience.

Importance

Why is title insurance a must-have? It protects property owners and lenders from unexpected legal issues. Some common risks include:

• Fraudulent ownership claims – Someone may falsely claim rights to your property.
• Public record errors – Mistakes in legal documents can lead to ownership disputes.
• Unknown heirs – Undisclosed family members of previous owners may contest ownership.
• Unpaid taxes or liens – Prior debts attached to the property can become your responsibility.
• Boundary disputes – Conflicts over land ownership with neighbors.

Without title insurance, you could face costly legal battles or financial losses. A claim helps resolve these problems efficiently.

Claiming

If you encounter a title issue, follow these six simple steps to file a claim with Eastern Title and Settlement.

Review Your Policy

Start by reading your title insurance policy carefully. Know the coverage details, exclusions, and claim submission requirements. Eastern Title provides both owner’s and lender’s title insurance policies, so check which applies to you.

Gather Your Documents

Prepare the necessary paperwork for a smooth claim process. You will need:

Document	Purpose
Proof of Ownership	Deed or title document confirming ownership.
Title Insurance Policy	Provided at closing; outlines coverage.
Claim Form	Available on Eastern Title’s website.
Supporting Evidence	Legal or financial documents proving the issue.
Property Tax Receipts	Confirms taxes are current and paid.
Loan Payoff Statement	Required if there is an outstanding mortgage.

Submit Your Claim

Once your documents are ready, submit your claim online or by mail. Make sure everything is complete to avoid delays. Claims are typically reviewed within 10-15 business days, and you will receive a confirmation of submission.

Investigation

Eastern Title and Settlement will verify the claim through:

• Public records examination – Checking for past transactions and errors.
• Legal dispute assessment – Identifying potential ownership challenges.
• Ownership history review – Confirming the legitimacy of past property transfers.
• Lien verification – Ensuring no unpaid debts are attached to the title.

Resolution

After verification, the next step is resolving the issue. Possible outcomes include:

• Title correction – Fixing errors in public records.
• Compensation – Financial reimbursement for covered losses.
• Legal support – Assistance in ownership disputes.
• Lien negotiations – Settling outstanding claims from past owners.

Finalization

Once the claim is resolved, the settlement process begins. This can take 30-60 days, depending on complexity. In cases involving legal disputes, court proceedings may extend the timeline.

Common Claims

Some of the most frequent title insurance claims include:

• Forgery & Fraud – Fake signatures on ownership documents.
• Unrecorded Easements – Undisclosed right-of-way issues.
• Boundary Disputes – Property line conflicts with neighbors.
• Unknown Liens – Outstanding debts tied to the property.
• Clerical Errors – Mistakes in public records affecting ownership.
• Encroachments – Unauthorized property extensions by neighbors.
• Undisclosed Heirs – Hidden inheritance claims from previous owners’ relatives.

Tips

Want to avoid claim hassles? Follow these simple tips:

• Review Your Policy Annually – Keep your title insurance coverage updated.
• Keep Property Records – Store deeds, agreements, and policy documents.
• Act Fast – Report title issues as soon as they arise.
• Get Legal Advice – Consult a real estate attorney for complex claims.
• Submit Documents Properly – Ensure all forms are completed correctly.
• Confirm Settlement Details – Double-check all agreements before finalizing.

Knowing and handling title insurance claims does not have to be overwhelming. With the right knowledge and preparation, you can protect your property investment and resolve title issues smoothly.

FAQs