Update Search
An Update Search (also known as a Title Continuation, Date-Down, or Run-Down) brings a previously executed title commitment, search report, or title policy current from its effective date through the latest available recording date at the county registry.
Common Transaction Uses
- Pre-closing verification for residential and commercial transactions
- Construction loan draw disbursements and mechanic's lien checks
- Loan modifications and mortgage refinancing closings
- Verification that deeds, mortgages, or releases have properly recorded
Public Records & Filings Examined
- Recent deed conveyances recorded since the prior effective date
- Newly recorded mortgages, deeds of trust, or home equity instruments
- Federal and state tax liens filed against the current owner
- County judgment dockets, civil court orders, and lis pendens notices
- Mechanics' and materialmen's lien filings
- Updated property tax rolls and assessment status
Information Required to Request
- Prior search or title commitment effective date
- Copy or reference of the baseline prior title search/policy
- Property street address, county, and state
- Tax Parcel Identification Number (APN / PIN)
- Current record owner name(s)
Examination Considerations
An update search relies on a valid prior baseline search and focuses strictly on documents recorded during the intervening period. If the prior baseline is unavailable or defective, a Current Owner or Two Owner Search may be necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions about Update Search
What is the purpose of an update search in title abstracting?
An update search verifies that no new liens, encumbrances, judgments, or unauthorized transfers have been recorded between the date of the original title commitment and the final closing or loan disbursement.
What time period does an update search cover?
It covers the exact window from the effective date and time of the prior title examination through the most current certified recording date of the subject county records.
Related Title Research Services
Order a Update Search
Submit your order identifiers through our contact form. Our intake team confirms receipt and initiates registry examination promptly.