A search of the title reveals the name of the current owner of the property, the legal description of the property, whether or not the owner has mineral rights, and whether there are certain claims, liabilities, or charges attached to the property. Other charges such as maintenance orders or writs of execution are not necessarily registered on the title, but may nevertheless affect the property. A lawyer can ensure that a buyer is protected from any such claims against the seller.

A clear title is one that has no claims, liabilities, or charges against it. Often things such as mortgages, caveats, liens, writs of execution, and easements will be registered on the title.