Quick Answer
Once the title search is done, the title company issues a commitment spelling out what it will insure and what still needs to be cleared, such as an outstanding lien. Reviewing it early gives everyone time to resolve issues before closing day.
- Issued after
- The title search
- Issued by
- The title company
- Lists
- Coverage terms and required exceptions
- Leads to
- The final title insurance policy
What's Inside a Title Commitment
A title commitment is typically organized into sections: one confirming the basic details of the transaction, like the buyer, seller, and property; and another listing exceptions, meaning any liens, easements, or other issues found during the title search that need to be addressed, or that will simply remain as standard exclusions from coverage.
Buyers and their agents should review the commitment closely, since it's the clearest picture of anything unusual attached to the property before closing.
From Commitment to Final Policy
Once the required items on the commitment are resolved, such as paying off a lien or recording a missing document, the title company issues the actual title insurance policy at closing. The commitment is essentially a preview of that policy, giving everyone a chance to fix problems before it's finalized.
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Frequently Asked Questions — Title commitment
When do I receive a title commitment?
It typically arrives after the title search is complete and well before closing, giving time to resolve any issues it identifies.
Who should review the title commitment?
Buyers, along with their agent and, where used, their attorney, should review it to understand any exceptions listed.
Is a title commitment the same as title insurance?
No. The commitment is a promise to insure once conditions are met; the actual policy is issued at closing.
What if the commitment lists a problem I don't understand?
Ask your title company or real estate attorney to explain it; most exceptions are routine, but it's worth understanding each one.