The relationship a title agency has with its underwriter is more than transactional—it's foundational. When market conditions shift, claims may increase, so having an experienced title insurance underwriter who understands your agency’s unique challenges and can adapt to your changing needs becomes invaluable.

But an underwriter doesn’t just handle an agency’s title claims when they arise; they are an extension of the agency’s risk management framework from the outset. Since they assume the financial risk associated with covered claims that may come to light after the settlement is completed, underwriters are incentivized to work with their agents prior to closing to identify possible issues and craft solutions to help minimize the risk of future claims and protect both of their bottom lines.

Title insurance claims have been increasing in recent years. According to the American Land Title Association (ALTA), the industry paid $638 million in claims in 2023, a significant increase from $596 million in 2022. An analysis from Milliman also reveals that the largest losses in title insurance stem from fraud and forgery activities. These claims average over $143,000 each, more than five times the size of all other claims. Milliman's research shows fraud and forgery claims jumped dramatically from 19% (2013-2020 average) to 44% of all claims in 2022. These staggering metrics demonstrate the importance of choosing an experienced underwriter.

However, general experience is just one item to evaluate amongst many when selecting an underwriter to add to your agency’s network of providers. Here are several other factors to consider:

1. Financial Stability: Consider whether an underwriter is backed by a strong parent company or has a proven track record of financial health. This may indicate adequate resources to continue operations even in challenging times.
2. Underwriting Knowledge: Experienced underwriters can spot potential issues before they become problems, helping to save time and headaches down the line.
3. Claims Experience: A reputable underwriter would not search for reasons to deny valid title claims or pursue curative litigation that is unlikely to succeed in order to delay a payment obligation. Instead, they should stand behind their policies and promptly accept claims when warranted.
4. Customer Service: Responsive, knowledgeable, solution-driven customer service can make all the difference when addressing title issues.
5. Flexible Solutions: Many underwriters approach business with a one-size-fits-all approach. Look for one that can fit your agency’s individual needs through more flexible minimum volume and remittance structures*.
6. Widespread Availability: Using the same providers across multiple markets can help provide a more seamless experience.
7. Culture of Compliance: Reputable underwriters are fully licensed and strive to maintain a culture of compliance with all applicable state and federal regulations.

A strong title agency begins with a strong title insurance underwriting foundation. Carefully evaluating these factors can help forge confident working relationships with underwriters that align with business objectives and individual needs. A title insurance underwriter like Radian Title Insurance Inc. embodies these attributes while understanding what matters most—providing exceptional service to title agents who need an underwriter they can trust. In an industry where reputation is everything, choosing an underwriter isn't just a business decision—it's a strategic investment in an agency's future.

*Where permitted by law.

Title Services are provided by Radian Title Insurance Inc. and Radian Settlement Services Inc., 1000 GSK Drive, Suite 210, Coraopolis, PA 15108, Tel: 800.646.8258, FL- Non-Resident Title Agency #A271379, AZ- Non-Resident Title Agent #1800016008, both subsidiaries of Radian Group Inc.