Certificate of Title NSW: What Buyers Need to Know

If you are looking for a “Certificate of Title” for a NSW property, the first thing to know is that NSW no longer issues them. The phrase is still widely used in everyday property searches, but the practical document required today is usually a current title search from the Torrens Register.

What the current NSW title search may show

The Torrens Register remains the authoritative record of registered ownership and interests. A current title search can show the registered proprietor, land description and interests recorded against the folio at the time of the search.

Since 11 October 2021, NSW Certificates of Title and the electronic control of the right to deal framework were abolished. The title remains a record in the Torrens Register; the change means there is no paper Certificate of Title that proves ownership by possession.

What information is needed to find the property?

Useful search details include property address, lot and deposited plan number, or title reference. An address can be a convenient starting point, but always check the legal title, lot and plan information before ordering.

How to order the correct record

To check current information, locate the property’s folio using the address or lot and deposited-plan details, then order a current title search. Obtain the deposited plan when the parcel layout matters, a dealing when the title refers to an instrument, or a historical search when researching earlier records.

What happened on 11 October 2021?

On 11 October 2021, all NSW Certificates of Title were abolished and stopped having legal effect. The Registrar General no longer issues paper certificates. An old paper certificate can be retained as a historical item, but possession of it does not prove present ownership or provide authority to complete a transaction.

Related documents you may need

The title and the deposited plan, strata plan or community plan answer different questions. A registered plan shows the legal parcel and may provide dimensions, bearings, marks or other survey information. It does not, by itself, replace a boundary re-establishment survey or prove that a fence, building or retaining wall is correctly positioned on the ground.

If the title refers to a separate instrument, obtain that dealing when its detailed terms matter. Use a conveyancer or solicitor for legal interpretation and a licensed cadastral surveyor for physical boundary identification.

A common mistake to avoid

Avoid websites or wording that suggest a new paper Certificate of Title will be delivered. What buyers generally need is current registry information, not a replacement ownership certificate.

What the title search does not show

A title search is not a complete due-diligence report. It does not ordinarily answer questions about zoning, development approvals, rates, land tax, flood or bushfire risk, contamination, building condition, market value or underground services. Those matters require other searches, inspections or professional advice.

Frequently asked questions

Does an old NSW Certificate of Title still prove ownership?

No. Certificates of Title ceased to have legal effect from 11 October 2021. Current ownership is checked in the Torrens Register.

What replaced the paper certificate?

The Torrens Register continues as the record of ownership and registered interests. A current title search provides a searchable record of the relevant folio.

Is a deposited plan included in a title search?

It is a separate document. The title identifies the land and plan reference; order the plan separately when you need the parcel layout.

Next step

Need current NSW ownership and registered-interest information? Locate the folio and order the current title record rather than relying on an old paper certificate.

Official source

This guide is based on information published by NSW Office of the Registrar General. Last reviewed: 8 September 2026.

A title search reports information available in the relevant land-title register when the search is performed. It is not a permanent or future guarantee because further dealings may subsequently be lodged or registered.

Title Now is an independent property-document ordering service. It is not a government department, land registry, law firm, conveyancing practice or surveying business. This information is general and does not constitute legal, conveyancing, planning or surveying advice.