How do I confirm costs for an additional parcel search before proceeding? – North Carolina

Short Answer

In North Carolina, the cost for an additional parcel title search is a matter of contract with the search company, not set by statute. The clearest way to confirm costs is to get a written quote that specifies the fee for the extra parcel and any rush or recording charges. Do not authorize further work until the search company confirms price and timeline in writing. If the company will not respond, consider reassigning the work to another search provider or coordinating directly through a North Carolina real estate attorney.

Understanding the Problem

The question here is how a North Carolina real estate client can confirm the cost to search an additional parcel when a title search company has already delivered an incomplete report. The situation often arises when a property consists of more than one parcel identification number (PIN), and the original order or quote covered only one. When the search company later says it must “confirm pricing” for the second parcel but does not respond with a quote or timeline, the client must decide whether to wait, push for written confirmation, or move the work elsewhere. This FAQ focuses only on confirming price and scope for the extra parcel search before more work is authorized.

Apply the Law

Under North Carolina law, pricing for title searches is generally a private contract issue. The parties define the scope of work, fees, and delivery time in their agreement or order confirmation. While no statute sets specific title search fees, consumer protection and contract principles still apply: the search company should clearly disclose what is included, the cost of any extra parcels, and any conditions for changes in price or timing. Disputes are typically handled in civil court if the contract is breached or the services are not delivered as agreed.

Key Requirements

• Clear scope of work: The order should state how many parcels are included, what records will be searched, and the effective search period.
• Defined pricing terms: Fees for the original search and any additional parcels should be clearly stated or tied to a predictable rate structure.
• Documented authorization: Any expansion of the scope, such as adding a second parcel search, should be authorized in writing so both sides agree on cost and timing.

What the Statutes Say

• North Carolina Gen. Stat. Chapter 75 (Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices) – prohibits unfair or deceptive business practices in commerce, which can include misleading or unclear service terms.

Analysis

Apply the Rule to the Facts: In the facts given, the client ordered a title search and received an incomplete report, missing the second parcel. The search company has acknowledged that an additional parcel search is needed but has not given a written quote or timeline, saying only that pricing must be “confirmed.” Because the price and timing for the extra parcel are part of the service contract, the safest step is to insist on a written clarification of scope and fees before agreeing to proceed, or to reassign the work if the current provider will not respond.

Process & Timing

1. Who files: The client or the client’s North Carolina real estate attorney. Where: Communicate directly with the title search company or abstractor, usually by email. What: Request a revised written quote that identifies each parcel, the fee per parcel, and an estimated completion date. When: Send this request as soon as it becomes clear that a second parcel is involved and before closing dates or contract deadlines approach.
2. Allow a short, defined response window—often 24 to 48 business hours—and state that no additional work is authorized until the quote and timeline are confirmed in writing. If there is no response, consider contacting a supervisor, requesting a status update, or shifting the order to another search provider.
3. Once a clear written quote is received and accepted, the search company completes the additional parcel search and delivers an updated title report or commitment covering all parcels identified in the order.

Exceptions & Pitfalls

• If the original order form or engagement letter already set a per-parcel rate, the search company may be able to charge for the extra parcel without a new quote, but it should still clearly confirm the total.
• Assuming a second parcel is included without reading the original scope can lead to surprise charges or rushed searches close to closing dates.
• Failing to confirm the parcel identification numbers (PINs) and legal descriptions can cause the search company to miss part of the property, even after the extra fee is paid.

Conclusion

In North Carolina, confirming costs for an additional parcel title search is a contract and communication issue, not a fixed-fee rule set by law. The safest approach is to obtain a written quote that clearly identifies each parcel, the fee for the extra search, and an estimated completion date before authorizing more work. If the search company does not respond in a reasonable time, the next step is to consider moving the assignment to another provider through a North Carolina real estate attorney.

Talk to a Real Estate Attorney

If you are dealing with an incomplete title search or unclear pricing for additional parcel work in North Carolina, our firm has experienced attorneys who can help you understand your options and timelines. Call us today at (919) 341-7055.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about North Carolina law based on the single question stated above. It is not legal advice for your specific situation and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws, procedures, and local practice can change and may vary by county. If you have a deadline, act promptly and speak with a licensed North Carolina attorney.