Whether you’re buying a home, investing in real estate, or resolving a property dispute, conducting a property title search is a crucial step. In New South Wales (NSW), a title search provides vital information about a property’s legal status—including the current owner, encumbrances, easements, and any registered interests.
Fortunately, NSW offers several reliable resources for conducting property title searches. In this article, we’ll explore what a title search includes, why it matters, and the best ways to access property title information in NSW.
What Is a Property Title Search?
A property title search is a legal document that reveals:
- The name of the registered owner
- The lot and plan number (identifying the property in the land registry)
- Mortgages, caveats, or liens against the property
- Easements (rights of access or usage by another party)
- Any restrictions, covenants, or zoning information
Title searches are essential for buyers, investors, developers, and legal professionals to verify ownership, understand risks, and avoid disputes.
Why You Need a Property Title Search
Here are some common reasons people request a title search in NSW:
- Before buying a property (to verify ownership and check for financial encumbrances)
- As part of due diligence in a real estate or development project
- During a legal dispute involving boundaries or ownership
- To update details on the title (e.g. name change, subdivision)
- To assess potential risks such as easements or restrictions on use
Now, let’s look at the best ways to access title information in NSW.
- NSW Land Registry Services (NSW LRS)
NSW Land Registry Services is the official body responsible for maintaining land and property records in NSW. It’s the most authoritative and comprehensive resource for title searches.
Services offered:
- Title Search (PDF with owner and encumbrance details)
- Plan Imaging (view subdivision plans, easements)
- Dealing Searches (see any changes or interests lodged)
- Historical Title Searches
How to access:
NSW LRS does not allow direct public access for individuals—you must go through an authorised Information Broker (see below) or a legal professional.
- Authorised Information Brokers
Information brokers are third-party services authorised by NSW LRS to provide access to land title records. These services are fast, digital, and user-friendly. They cater to home buyers, lawyers, conveyancers, and investors.
Top Information Brokers in NSW:
- a) Infotrack
Offers detailed title searches, including layered property reports, historical titles, and plan images. Highly regarded in the legal and real estate industries.
- b) Fynd
Fynd is an emerging and highly user-friendly platform offering fast, reliable access to property title searches and related property documents across NSW.
Fynd is particularly useful for buyers and investors who want official property data quickly, without navigating complex systems.
- c) CITEC Confirm
Offers a wide range of land and title searches across Australia. Easy access for both professionals and individuals.
- b) SAI Global Property
A popular provider used by conveyancers and property professionals. Offers bundled reports with zoning, easements, and land value data.
- e) TitleSearchNSW
Specialises in NSW property searches. Simple interface ideal for non-professionals. Allows ordering title searches with fast turnaround times.
- Your Conveyancer or Solicitor
If you’re purchasing or selling property, your conveyancer or solicitor will typically conduct a title search as part of the settlement process. This is a hassle-free option, particularly if you’re not comfortable navigating online portals yourself.
Lawyers and conveyancers use professional tools (like InfoTrack or PEXA) that provide not only titles but also zoning certificates, council information, and strata reports.
- Property and Planning Portals (For General Info)
While not a substitute for an official title search, these portals can offer useful context:
NSW Spatial Services – SIX Maps
Website: six.nsw.gov.au
- View property boundaries, lot numbers, zoning info, and aerial imagery.
- Helpful for identifying easements and planning overlays.
NSW Planning Portal
Website: planningportal.nsw.gov.au
- Includes zoning certificates, development applications, and council controls.
These tools are free and publicly accessible but should be used in conjunction with an official title search—not as a replacement.
- Council Records
Local councils maintain some land records, including zoning, development approvals, and building restrictions. While they don’t provide title certificates, they’re a valuable supplementary resource—especially if you’re planning to build or renovate.
Contact your local council for:
- Section 10.7 Planning Certificates
- Development applications
- Flood or bushfire risk reports
Tips for Conducting a Title Search
- Double-check the correct address and lot/plan number
- Always cross-reference with property boundaries on SIX Maps
- If unsure, speak to a licensed conveyancer or property lawyer
- Use authorised brokers only—avoid unverified third-party websites
Final Thoughts
Conducting a property title search in NSW is a critical part of responsible property ownership, investment, and development. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced investor, using the right resources helps you avoid costly surprises.
Start with NSW Land Registry Services or an authorised broker for accurate and legal documentation. When in doubt, engage a property professional to guide you through the process.
Need help interpreting your title search? Consider consulting a property lawyer or licensed conveyancer to ensure you fully understand your rights and obligations.
