Code of Ethics

Code of Ethics

The foundation of American heritage of personal freedom is the widely allocated ownership and use of the land. Upon the furtherance of that heritage depends on the survival and growth of free institutions and of our civilization. The Land Title Profession is the instrumentality through which titles to land reach their highest accuracy and attain the widest distribution.

The Title Profession, having become such a vital and integral part of our country’s economy there are imposed on each member of the Southeast Land Title Association obligations above and beyond those customarily required of participants in ordinary commercial pursuits and a code of ethics higher and purer than ordinarily considered acceptable in the marketplace, to the fulfillment of which the Title Profession is dedicated. Each member of the Southeast Land Title Association, Inc. shall be ever zealous to maintain and improve the quality of service in his or her chosen calling and shall assume personal responsibility for maintaining the highest possible standards of business practices, and to those purposes shall pledge observance and furtherance of the letter and spirit of the following Code of Ethics.

First

Governed by the laws, customs, and usages of the respective communities they serve, and with the realization that ready transferability results from accuracy and perfection of titles, members shall issue abstracts of title or policies of title insurance only after a complete and thorough investigation, founded on adequate records and learned examination thereof, and shall otherwise so conduct their business that the needs of their customers shall be of paramount importance.

Second

Every member shall obtain and justifiably hold a reputation for honesty and integrity, always standing sponsor for his work, intellectually and financially.

Third

Ever striving to serve the owners of interest in real estate, members shall endeavor (a) to facilitate transfers of title by elimination of delays and unnecessary exceptions; and (b) to make their services available in a manner which will encourage transferability of title, provide adequately for obligations which they assume in connection therewith, and afford a fair return on the value of services rendered and capital employed.

Fourth

Members shall support legislation throughout the country which is in the public interest and will unburden real estate from unnecessary restrictions and restraints on alienation.

Fifth

Members shall not engage in any unfair or deceptive acts or practices and shall conduct their business so as to promote the public interest and continuing integrity and stability of the Title Profession.

Sixth

Any matter of an alleged violation of the principles set forth in this Code of Ethics may be submitted to the Grievance Committee or the Board of Directors of the Southeast Land Title Association, Inc.