Due Diligence & InspectionQuestion 52
How Do I Check for Liens on a Houston Property?
Search the Harris County Clerk's Office records, order a title search through a title company, and review the preliminary title commitment before closing.
Liens can transfer with the property if not caught before closing. Here's how to protect yourself.
- Title search: Your title company will conduct a comprehensive search of Harris County records. This is standard in every transaction.
- County Clerk records: Search the Harris County Clerk's real property records online for recorded liens, judgments, and encumbrances.
- Tax liens: Check HCAD for unpaid property taxes. Tax liens take priority over almost everything.
- Mechanic's liens: Filed by contractors who weren't paid for work. Search county records.
- HOA liens: Unpaid HOA dues can become liens. Request an HOA resale certificate.
Bottom Line
A title search and title insurance are your primary protections against liens. Never close on a Houston property without clear title and owner's title insurance.