US FederalAm I entitled to choose my own title insurance company when buying a home?
Yes, under federal law, you have the right to choose your own title insurance company when buying a home.
What the Law Says
The Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) protects homebuyers by promoting transparency and competition in real estate settlement services — including title insurance.
Under federal law, homebuyers are not required to use a title insurance company selected or recommended by their lender, real estate agent, or settlement agent. RESPA was enacted to eliminate abusive practices like kickbacks and referral fees that inflate settlement costs and limit consumer choice.
The law explicitly affirms that borrowers must be free to select their own providers for settlement services — a principle rooted in Congress’s finding that consumers need 'meaningful disclosure' and 'the opportunity to shop' for services.
Statutory TextThe Congress finds that significant reforms in the real estate settlement process are needed to eliminate abusive practices... and to provide improved disclosures of settlement costs to consumers.
— 12 U.S.C. § 2601 — Congressional findings and purpose
What to Do
Review your Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure — both must list your chosen title insurer if you selected one.
Inform your lender and settlement agent in writing (email is acceptable) that you are selecting your own title insurance company.
Refuse any pressure to use a specific provider — it’s illegal under RESPA.
If denied the right to choose, file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) at www.consumerfinance.gov/complaint.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.