Do open permits show up on a title search?

Updated October 2, 2026 · 3 min read

Short answer

Usually not. A standard title search covers documents recorded in the land records, such as deeds, mortgages and liens. An open permit sits in the building department's records, so it is often missed unless someone orders a separate municipal or permit search. Standard title insurance policies typically do not cover open permits either.

Why title searches miss them

Title work answers one question: who owns the property and what claims are recorded against it. Building permits are kept by a different office and are not recorded against the title. A house can have clear title and several open permits at the same time.

When a permit problem does appear

If an open permit or code violation has led to fines and the city has recorded a lien for them, that lien will show up. By then the problem has usually been running for some time.

The search that does find them

A municipal lien search, sometimes called a permit search, asks the city or county directly about open permits, code violations and unpaid charges. It is routine in some areas and rare in others. Ask your title company or attorney whether one is being ordered for your purchase. If not, you can check the permit record yourself.

Common questions

Does title insurance cover open permits?

Standard policies generally exclude them, because permits are not matters of title. Some enhanced policies offer limited coverage for certain permit problems. Read your policy or ask your title agent.

Is an open permit a lien on the property?

Not by itself. An open permit is an unfinished administrative record. It can lead to fines in some places, and unpaid fines can become a lien.