How to Conduct a Property Title Search in Queensland

Introduction

A property title search is one of the most important due diligence steps in any Queensland property transaction. Whether you are buying, selling, or refinancing, confirming the legal status of a property ensures you know exactly who owns it, what interests exist over it, and whether there are any hidden risks attached to the title.

Under the Property Law Act 2023, title searches are a core requirement within the Seller Disclosure Statement (Form 2) framework effective 1 August 2025. This means sellers must ensure accurate and verified information is obtained early, before the buyer signs a contract. 

This is where SearchX becomes valuable. Instead of manually sourcing title details from multiple platforms and risking delays, SearchX streamlines property searches and documentation into one place, reducing risk and improving contract readiness.

What is a Property Title Search?

A property title search is an official record extracted from the Queensland Titles Register. It confirms:

• Current legal ownership

• Lot and plan description

• Registered mortgages

• Easements

• Caveats

• Covenants or restrictions on use

This information forms the core legal foundation of the property transaction. It ensures all parties understand exactly what is being purchased.

When and Why to Conduct a Title Search?

A title search should be conducted:

• Before listing a property for sale

• Before signing a contract to buy

• When applying for finance or refinancing

• When verifying whether restrictions or interests exist over land

For sellers, title accuracy is essential to comply with the new disclosure regime. For buyers, it protects against future disputes, undisclosed third-party rights, or unexpected financial obligations.

Step-by-Step Guide to Conducting a Title Search

1. Gather property information
   Prepare the property’s lot and plan number (found on existing contract documents or rates notices).
   
   

2. Choose how to obtain the search

   • Through Titles Queensland online

   • Through your solicitor or conveyancer

   • Via platforms such as SearchX (streamlined property search ordering)
     
     

3. Access the Titles Queensland portal
   You can order a title search online through the official state registry.
   
   

4. Pay fees
   Title search fees vary depending on the search type selected.
   
   

5. Download and review
   You will receive a digital PDF showing all registered information.

Using SearchX, this same search sits inside your broader document collection for the transaction, meaning sellers, buyers, and their legal representatives can manage every required search in one place instead of navigating multiple independent systems.

How to Review a Title Search

When reviewing the title:

• Confirm the owner listed is correct

• Ensure the legal description matches the property intended for sale

• Identify any registered mortgages

• Look for easements or access agreements

• Check for caveats that may block or delay settlement

Any item on this search can directly impact contract conditions, settlement timeframes, valuation, and finance approval.

What to Do If Issues Are Found

If encumbrances or caveats appear:

• Seek direction and legal interpretation from your solicitor

• Contact relevant parties to arrange releases or withdrawals

• Resolve all interests before settlement where possible

SearchX assists here by keeping all search outputs organised and accessible, which supports quicker legal review and reduces chances of missed encumbrances during disclosure.

Why Title Searches Matter for Seller Disclosure Compliance

From 1 August 2025, sellers in Queensland must provide accurate property search information before the buyer signs. A title search is mandatory evidence supporting the Seller Disclosure Statement (Form 2). If a seller provides incorrect or missing information, the buyer may terminate, even late in the process.

By using SearchX to centralise and manage property searches early, both sellers and conveyancers can reduce the risk of non-compliance, prevent delays, and move toward contract signing with confidence.

Conclusion

A property title search is a fundamental component of property due diligence and disclosure in Queensland. It verifies ownership, identifies restrictions, and protects all parties involved in the transaction.

Instead of manually sourcing these records, SearchX simplifies compliance by centralising property searches and document collection into a single controlled workflow, making disclosure preparation faster, more accurate, and legally safeguarded.