> Although new to New Zealand, Title Insurance has been around overseas for over 130 years - the cover it provides for off title risk has been proven to be relevant and of real value in similar title jurisdictions.

> Where did Title Insurance originate?

Title insurance had its origins in the United States in the period following the Civil War. Title to land was transferred using the general law or 'old system' process, that is a chain of documents going back as far as necessary in order to prove good title, free of defects and encumbrances. Shortcomings in this process were especially evident after the Civil War when many land registries were destroyed.

Title insurance companies were formed in order to protect the interests of owners and lenders. It was similar to the Torrens Title land system in that a good title was guaranteed (except by private enterprise instead of government). However unlike the protection provided by the government under a Torrens Title system, the scope of the private title insurance products has increased. Rather than simply protecting title risk, a title insurance policy now covers a wide range of risks associated with property ownership.

It is this extended coverage that makes title insurance highly relevant in the NZ marketplace.

> What Is Title Insurance?
> Does someone have to be at fault before I can make a claim?
> What risks does a title insurance policy cover for a Home Owner?
> What risks does a title insurance policy cover for a Lender?
> Title Insurance is an American concept - does it work in any other countries with a > > title system like ours?
> Why do we need title insurance in New Zealand when the Government guarantees > > title to land?
> Doesn’t using a lawyer protect me?
> What additional level of comfort does Title Insurance provide?
> I’m buying a property so I can re-develop it, does the policy cover this?
> How does the policy fit within my current insurance portfolio?

Click on Claims Examples to read about situations in New Zealand where Title Insurance would have prevented a lot of hassle and concern for both purchasers and lenders.