Title checking primarily confirms what?

• A. Confirms boundary location
• B. Checks for planning permissions
• C. Confirms what the seller can convey and checks for defects in the title and encumbrances
• D. Verifies occupancy history

Answer: (C)

Title checking is about ensuring the buyer can receive clear, marketable title by verifying what the seller is legally entitled to transfer and spotting any defects or encumbrances that could burden the property. By examining the register and title deeds, a conveyancer confirms ownership, the type of estate being transferred (freehold or leasehold), and any rights that bind the land (easements, covenants, rights of way). It also reveals any charges or adverse interests—mortgages, third-party rights, restrictive covenants, notices, or cautions—so the buyer knows what must be addressed before completion. The aim is to ensure the seller can convey the title requested in the contract and that there are no hidden issues that would prevent transfer or affect value. If problems are found, steps include negotiating cures with the seller, seeking discharge or release of encumbrances, or obtaining indemnity insurance. Planning permissions or occupancy history are not the focus of title checking; planning matters come from planning searches and records. The key takeaway is that title checking gives the buyer a picture of what the buyer is actually getting and what must be cleared or disclosed before completion.