Quick Answer
A Perth title search retrieves the official property records for a specific parcel of land in Western Australia. It confirms the registered owner, lists any encumbrances, and identifies the title type—such as green title or survey-strata—so you can spot local risks like mining interests or caveats before settlement. You can order a Current Title / State Lease search through TitleFinder for $74.50 AUD.
Local Property Risks in Perth and WA
Perth property buyers face specific local risks tied to the title structure and the state's history. A standard perth property title search reveals these issues, but you must know what to look for in the document.
Green Title vs Survey-Strata
In WA, a "green title" is a standard freehold Torrens title. It generally means you have sole ownership of the lot with no shared common property. However, always check the title text for easements or restrictive covenants that limit what you can build on the land.
Survey-strata titles are common in Perth infill developments and grouped housing. While you own your defined lot, the survey-strata plan may outline common property like shared driveways or retaining walls. If the title references a strata company, check the associated statements to understand your ongoing obligations and liabilities for maintenance.
Mining Interests
Western Australia has significant mining activity, and this extends into Perth's suburban fringe and regional areas. A perth title search may reveal memorials noting mining leases or prospects registered over the land. Even if a property is a residential block, underlying mining tenements can exist. You need to check the title for any reference to mining acts or agreements, as this can affect your surface rights and future land use.
Caveats and Encumbrances
A caveat is a formal notice that someone else claims an interest in the property. When you conduct a property search perth, the title will list any active caveats. Buyers must address these before settlement, as a caveat can prevent the transfer of ownership. Encumbrances might also include restrictive covenants—rules set by a previous owner or developer dictating building materials, wall heights, or even the colour of your roof.
Rural Titles and Fringe Properties
Properties on the outskirts of Perth, such as those in the Hills or Swan Valley, often carry older title structures. Rural titles frequently include rights of way for stock routes, water corporation easements for main drains, or access rights for neighbouring properties. Always order the deposited plan and any referenced instruments to understand the exact boundaries and access rights for rural land.
Comparison: Green Title vs Survey-Strata
| Feature | Green Title | Survey-Strata Title |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | Sole ownership of the lot | Sole ownership of the defined lot |
| Common Property | None | May include shared driveways or walls |
| Key Document | Certificate of Title | Certificate of Title + Survey-Strata Plan |
| Main Risk | Easements or covenants hidden in the text | Strata company obligations and shared maintenance costs |
Perth Title Search Checklist
Use this checklist to order the right documents and know what you are looking for.
- Order the Current Title / State Lease search ($74.50 AUD): Confirms the current owner, checks for mortgages, caveats, and memorials like mining interests.
- Check the Title Type: Identify if it is a green title or survey-strata. If it is survey-strata, you must also review the plan.
- Order the Plan: If the title refers to a deposited plan or strata plan, order it. This shows lot boundaries, easement locations, and common property areas.
- Review Encumbrances: Read the text of any caveats, covenants, or easements listed on the title. If a dealing number is referenced, order that instrument to read the full terms.
- Verify Mining Memorials: Look for any references to the Mining Act. If present, confirm whether surface rights are affected before proceeding.
- Check for Orders: Look for any council or regulatory orders lodged against the title that might require you to fix fencing or remove unapproved structures.
Always order your title search early in your due diligence period, well before making an unconditional offer. This gives you time to order follow-up documents—like specific dealings or plans—if the main title reveals issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a green title and a survey-strata title in Perth?
A green title is a standard freehold lot with no shared common property. A survey-strata title divides land into separate lots but can include common property, like a shared driveway, which may be managed by a strata company.
Can a property search perth reveal mining interests?
Yes. A title search will show any registered memorials related to mining leases or tenements. Even residential properties can be subject to underlying mining rights in WA, so it is important to check the title.
How much does a Perth title search cost?
You can order a Current Title / State Lease search through TitleFinder for $74.50 AUD. This provides the official property records for the specified lot.
Order the right TitleFinder document
Use this guide as a reference, then order the actual record that answers your question:
- WA Title Search — $79.90
- WA Survey Search — $85.90
- WA Document Search — $91.80
If you are unsure, start with the current title search, then add the plan or instrument if the title points to one.
Need the title search? Use the TitleFinder product links above to order the current title, plan, instrument or state-specific property record you actually need.
