Endorsements: Overview

Endorsements to title policies serve to modify or amend the wording or language of the title policies, thereby expanding – or sometimes limiting – the coverage afforded under such title policies. This enables insurers to tailor coverage to meet specific transaction or customer needs. Affirmative coverage is best added to a policy by virtue of endorsements rather than by additions to Schedule B. In some states, however, affirmative coverage within Schedule B is not permitted and coverage must be given through endorsement to policy.

 

The most common endorsements are ALTA pre-printed endorsements which include:   

 

ALTA 1 Street Assessments   

ALTA 2 Truth in Lending   

ALTA 3 Zoning   

ALTA 3.1 Expanded Zoning   

ALTA 4 Condominium   

ALTA 5 Planned Unit Developing   

ALTA 5.1 Expanded Planned Unit Development   

ALTA 6 Variable Rate Mortgage   

ALTA 6.1 Variable Rate Mortgage Negative Amortization   

ALTA 7 Manufactured Housing Unit   

ALTA 8.1 Environmental Protection Liens   

ALTA 9 Comprehensive (violation of covenants, restrictions)

 

Other endorsements, such as those which are state-specific, may also be utilized. These may include endorsements which provide insurance for contiguity; deletion of creditor’s rights; additional interest; shared appreciation; usury; zoning; navigational servitude; filled-in lands; foundation; easements; future advances; revolving credit; partnerships; non-imputation; tie-ins; doing business; and several others. Some endorsements may be prohibited from use in certain states.

 

Following is an overview of the most commonly requested endorsements. (To obtain a complete listing of endorsements approved for use in your state and the underwriting requirements for issuance of these endorsements, please contact your local Agents National Title underwriting counsel.)

 

See also:

 

Affirmative Coverages