Pennsylvania Issues Order Affecting Title Work

April 9, 2020

A month after issuing an Emergency Disaster Declaration for Pennsylvania, the state’s governor ordered the closure of all non-life sustaining businesses. Now, a memorandum issued April 8 by the state’s Secretary of the Commonwealth could inhibit title insurance activities on residential real estate contracts signed after March 6.

The prohibition is in effect until the Emergency Disaster Declaration is lifted in the state. The memorandum also prohibits inspections, appraisals and final walk-throughs.  

The memorandum indicates that title insurance activities are permitted on transactions that were under contract prior to March 6 but would close after that date.

“The COVID-19 global pandemic has created an unprecedented situation and we understand the concerns of businesses and individuals impacted by this virus” the memorandum stated. “However, due to significant health concerns for the residents of this commonwealth, only in-person residential real estate activities that meet the provisions of this guidance are permissible.”


Contact ALTA at 202-296-3671 or communications@alta.org.