What is a Cloud on Title?

What is a Cloud on Title?

A "cloud on title" is a term used in real estate to describe any claim, lien, or encumbrance that may impair the title to real property or make the title doubtful. Essentially, it represents a potential risk to the ownership of the property because it could be a sign of a defect in the title that needs to be resolved before the property can be freely sold, mortgaged, or otherwise transferred.

Common examples of issues that can create a cloud on title include:

• Unresolved liens: Debts attached to the property for unpaid taxes, contractors, or mortgages.
• Disputes over property boundaries: Unclear or contested property lines.
• Claims of ownership by another party: Previous owners or heirs claiming ownership rights.
• Errors in public records: Mistakes in earlier deeds, wills, or legal documents.
• Fraudulent title documents: Forged or fabricated deeds or claims.

To clear a cloud on title, property owners often need to undertake a legal action known as a "quiet title" action, which seeks to establish clear ownership and remove the cloud. This process ensures that the property title is legally defensible and marketable in the future.