Part 2: Filing a Claim — Documents, Timeline, and Strategy

•April 30, 2025

When Title Trouble Strikes

Discovering a problem with your property’s title can feel like the ground shifting under your feet. Whether it’s a surprise lien, an ownership dispute, or a boundary issue, the next steps you take can make or break your ability to protect your investment.

At Philip Meyer PLLC – Attorney at Law, we’ve helped property owners across Texas navigate title insurance claims with clarity, strategy, and results. In this article, we break down exactly how to file a claim, what documents you’ll need, the timeline to expect, and why timing—and presentation—matters.

Step 1: Gather Your Documentation

Before you contact the title company, assemble everything that supports your claim. Organized paperwork builds credibility and can significantly speed up the process.

Key documents typically include:

Your title insurance policyThis outlines the scope of coverage and identifies the insured parties.
Closing documentsEspecially the final settlement statement (HUD-1) and recorded deed.
Evidence of the issueThis could be a tax lien notice, court summons, letter from a third party claiming ownership, or a survey showing encroachment.
Communication recordsEmails or letters from any parties involved, especially those related to the problem at hand.
Proof of damages (if any)If you’ve suffered a financial loss (e.g., paid to clear a lien), include receipts or bank records.

Pro Tip: Make copies and keep a separate file for your records. Submitting a clean, well-labeled claim package can make a huge difference.

Step 2: File the Claim Promptly

Every title insurance policy includes a clause requiring the insured to give timely notice of a potential claim. Waiting too long—especially if the issue worsens—can give the insurer grounds to deny coverage.

To file your claim:

Locate the claims contact infoIt’s usually in your policy or available on the title company’s website.
Submit your notice in writingEmail is typically fine, but confirm if they require a formal letter or portal submission.
Include your policy number, property address, and a clear explanationof the problem and any related documents.
Request written confirmationthat your claim has been received.

If you’re unsure how to word the notice, we can help you draft a professional and legally sound letter.

Step 3: Understand the Timeline and Process

After your claim is submitted, the title company will begin an investigation. This can take weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the issue.

Here’s what typically happens next:

Claim AcknowledgmentYou should receive confirmation within a few days.
Assignment of a claims examinerThis person reviews the case and may request more information.
Investigation phaseThe examiner reviews public records, surveys, legal filings, and prior transactions.
Coverage decision If the issue is covered, they may offer to defend you legally or reimburse financial losses. If denied, they must explain why.

Important: If you receive a denial, do not assume the matter is closed. Many denials are negotiable or reversible with proper legal intervention.

Step 4: Strategy Matters — When to Involve a Lawyer

While some claims are straightforward, many require a legal strategy from the start. The title company’s goal is to limit its liability—not necessarily to look out for yours.

You should consider getting a lawyer involved if:

You’re unsure how to frame or submit your claim
You’re facing legal action or a court order related to the property
The insurer is delaying, denying, or requesting excessive documentation
You believe the issue is covered, but they claim it’s excluded

At Philip Meyer PLLC – Attorney at Law, we work to hold title insurers accountable and protect your rights as a property owner. We know how to speak their language—and when to push back.

Final Thoughts

Filing a title insurance claim isn’t just about paperwork—it’s about knowing how to assert your rights, when to act, and how to avoid the pitfalls that can derail a valid claim. If you’re in doubt, don’t wait for the issue to escalate. The sooner you act, the more leverage you’ll have.

Coming Up in Part 3:

What to Expect From the Title Company’s Investigation — Get insight into how claims are reviewed, what to watch for, and how to stay in control throughout the process.

Disclaimer:

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not establish an attorney-client relationship with Philip Meyer, PLLC. If you need legal advice specific to your situation, we encourage you to reach out to Philip Meyer PLLC – Attorney at Law—a Texas-based law firm.