A title defect is anything that can cause a title to be considered invalid or defective in some way. Some examples are:

• Invalid documents due to forgery, fraud, undue influence, duress, incompetency, incapacity, or impersonation.

• Failure of any person or entity to have authorized a transfer or conveyance.

• A document affecting title that is not properly executed, signed, witnessed, notarized, or delivered.

• Undisclosed or unrecorded easements not otherwise apparent on your land.

• No right of access to and from the land.

• A document executed under a falsified, expired, or otherwise invalid power of attorney.

• A document not properly filed, recorded, or indexed in the public records.

• Ownership claims by undisclosed or missing heirs.

• Defect arising from an improper prior foreclosure.

• Undisclosed restrictive covenants affecting your property.

Lien issues can also cause title defects. Some examples of lien issues are:

• Any statutory or constitutional contractor’s, mechanic’s, or materialman’s lien for labor or materials that began on or before the policy date. Talk to an attorney about your rights.

• Lien for labor or materials furnished by a contractor without your consent.

• A previous owner failed to pay

o a mortgage or deed of trust

o a judgment, tax, or special assessment

o a charge by a homeowners or condominium association.

• Other liens or claims that may exist against your title that are not listed in the policy.

In Florida, a title defect refers to any issue that compromises the validity or integrity of a property's title. Common defects include forgery, fraud, undue influence, incompetency, and improper execution of documents. Florida law requires that documents affecting property title must be properly executed, signed, witnessed, notarized, and delivered to be valid. Additionally, they must be correctly filed, recorded, and indexed in the public records. Easements that are undisclosed or unrecorded can also constitute title defects, as can issues with access rights to the property. Claims by missing heirs or defects from improper foreclosures can further cloud a title. Liens, such as those from contractors, judgments, taxes, or homeowners associations, can also create title defects if they were not settled by previous owners. It is important to address any potential title defects before completing a property transaction. In Florida, title insurance is commonly used to protect against these risks, and an attorney can help individuals understand their rights and navigate any title issues that may arise.