Common Title Issues in Pennsylvania & How to Solve Them

Purchasing real estate is one of the biggest investments most people make in their lifetime. However, many buyers are unaware of the potential title issues that can arise before—or even after—the closing. In Pennsylvania, several common title problems can delay transactions or put your property ownership at risk. The good news? With the right title insurance and a trusted title company, these issues can often be resolved quickly and efficiently. Here’s what Pennsylvania buyers and sellers need to know.

1. Undiscovered Liens

One of the most common title issues in Pennsylvania is undiscovered liens. Previous owners may have had unpaid debts—such as contractor bills, utility charges, or back taxes—that can result in liens against the property. These debts don’t always surface in routine checks and can become the new owner’s problem.

Solution: A thorough title search performed by a reputable title company will often uncover these liens before closing. Title insurance protects you from financial loss if a lien is discovered after the sale.

2. Errors in Public Records

Clerical mistakes or missing documentation in the county’s property records can impact your ownership rights. These errors might include misfiled deeds, incorrect legal descriptions, or omitted signatures, and they can complicate future property transfers.

Solution: During the title examination process, these errors can be identified and corrected. Title insurance provides coverage for losses due to undiscovered defects in the public record.

3. Unknown Heirs or Ownership Disputes

In Pennsylvania, many older homes are passed down through generations. Sometimes, an heir may not have been properly notified of an estate sale or may come forward years later claiming ownership. Disputes can also arise when joint owners disagree about the sale or if a divorce wasn’t fully resolved.

Solution: A full title search and review of probate records can help identify any potential heirs or ownership conflicts. Title insurance can protect you from future legal battles over ownership rights.

4. Forged or Fraudulent Documents

While rare, forged deeds, power of attorney documents, or fraudulent transfers can occur—especially in cases of vacant or inherited properties. These can result in serious legal complications, even years after the property was purchased.

Solution: Title insurance includes fraud protection, giving buyers peace of mind even if someone tries to claim rights to the property using falsified documents.

5. Boundary or Survey Disputes

Pennsylvania’s patchwork of older property lines and inconsistent surveying practices can lead to disputes between neighbors over fences, driveways, or land use. These issues often arise after a sale, particularly in rural or subdivided areas.

Solution: A current property survey combined with title insurance that includes survey coverage can prevent these boundary disputes from becoming costly legal issues.

Protect Your Investment with the Right Partner

The best defense against title issues is a knowledgeable, experienced title company that understands Pennsylvania’s unique real estate landscape. At H&H, we perform comprehensive title searches, resolve issues before closing, and provide robust title insurance policies to protect your property investment now and in the future.

Have questions about a potential title issue? Contact us today—your peace of mind is our priority.