Which deed provides the most protection to a grantee and contains covenants of title?

• A. Special warranty deed
• B. Quitclaim deed
• C. Bargain and sale deed
• D. General warranty deed

Answer: (D)

Covenants of title are promises about the quality and history of the title that a deed can include. The general warranty deed offers the broadest protection for the grantee because it contains multiple covenants that cover the entire chain of title, not just the period the grantor owned the property. It promises the grantor will defend against any title defects, even those that arose before the grantor’s ownership, and includes promises such as seisin (ownership), freedom from encumbrances, further assurances to fix defects, quiet enjoyment (the grantee won’t be disturbed by someone with a superior claim), and warranty of title throughout the whole history of the property. The other deeds provide less protection: a special warranty deed covers only the period the grantor owned the property; a bargain and sale deed and a quitclaim deed offer little to no covenants or assurances about title. Therefore, the general warranty deed is the best choice for maximum protection and contains covenants of title.