How do I find out what's registered against a property?

Order a parcel register through the electronic land registration system, typically via a lawyer or an authorised service provider. It shows registered instruments affecting title.

Someone registered a lien on my property.

Construction liens have strict expiry and enforcement timelines. Get advice quickly — an expired lien can be discharged, but a valid one must be addressed before you can sell or refinance.

Do I need title insurance?

It is standard in Ontario residential transactions and covers defined title risks and some fraud. It is not a substitute for a proper search and legal review.

Ontario Land Registry & Teranet — Title Searches & Registration

Ontario Land Registry & Teranet

Ontario land registration is administered through land registry offices with electronic registration operated by Teranet. Anything registered on title — mortgages, construction liens, easements, notices — binds a purchaser, which is why a title search before closing is essential and why liens registered after your search still matter.

What it does

Maintains the electronic land register
Registers transfers, charges, liens and notices
Provides title searches and parcel registers

Matters it hears

Title searches and parcel register requests
Registration of transfers and charges
Construction lien registrations and discharges
Easements, restrictive covenants and notices

Appeals & review

Disputes about title, liens or registration are decided by the Superior Court of Justice, not the registry.

Appeal and review deadlines are short and strictly applied. Treat the decision date as the start of a clock.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find out what's registered against a property?: Order a parcel register through the electronic land registration system, typically via a lawyer or an authorised service provider. It shows registered instruments affecting title.
Someone registered a lien on my property.: Construction liens have strict expiry and enforcement timelines. Get advice quickly — an expired lien can be discharged, but a valid one must be addressed before you can sell or refinance.
Do I need title insurance?: It is standard in Ontario residential transactions and covers defined title risks and some fraud. It is not a substitute for a proper search and legal review.

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General information about jurisdiction and process, not legal advice. LegalCounselNearMe is not a law firm and is not affiliated with Ontario Land Registry & Teranet. Procedures, forms and fees change — the official site is authoritative.