General vs. Special Warranty Deed in Florida
The key difference is warranty scope: a general warranty deed warrants against all title defects (past and present), while a special warranty deed warrants only against defects arising during the grantor's ownership period.
General Warranty Deed
- Broadest title protection available
- Warrants against all defects, regardless of when they arose
- Standard for Florida residential sales
- Grantor personally guarantees the entire title chain
Special Warranty Deed
- Limited warranty covering only the grantor's ownership period
- Common in commercial, REO, and corporate transactions
- Used when grantor has limited title history knowledge
- Banks, trustees, and corporations often prefer this form
Title Insurance
Title insurance provides comprehensive coverage regardless of deed type, making it essential for all Florida transactions. The deed warranty supplements but does not replace title insurance.
Related Terms
- Evidence of Title — Deed as title evidence
- Closing — Deed delivered at closing
- Encumbrance — Defects warranted against
Barnes Walker Title Services
Barnes Walker Title prepares and reviews warranty deeds for Florida real estate closings, ensuring proper title protection. Submit a title inquiry for assistance.
Florida Law Reference
Fla. Stat. Ch. 689
Governs the requirements for transferring real property in Florida, including deed execution, delivery, and recording.
Reviewed by the attorneys at Barnes Walker, Goethe, Shea & Robinson, PLLC