Title Automation and Conversion Group

One of Teranet's main goals is the automation, parcelization and conversion of ownership units or properties in Ontario. It is currently estimated that 5.3 million properties exist and as of March 31, 2006 4.6 million are in the automated database. Geographic blocks are created for the area covered by a Land Registry Office, properties within the blocks are searched by Implementation staff and given Property Identification Numbers (PINS) and a number of blocks are moved over to the electronic system generally on a predetermined day each month. Maps or graphic indices to these properties are also created.

Differences in record organization:

• Historically, Land Registry Offices organized title information in a paper-based system. Automation involves digitally reformatting land registration data, allowing us to re-organize this information into a more sophisticated, electronic-based environment.
• During the automation process Registry properties are parcelized to ownership, similar to the existing Land Titles system. This is a major departure from the historic practice of organizing interests to property in a geographic paper filing system.
• The conversion of properties, currently governed by the Registry System to the more streamlined Land Titles System result in an organized, accurate and up-to-date statement of ownership.

Key benefits:

• Land Registry Office clients are able to access information electronically through a name, address, instrument number or Property Identification Number (PIN).
• Conversion of Registry properties to Land Titles Qualified provides a more streamlined method of searching as well as a guaranteed title under the Land Titles Act.
• Automation, parcelization and conversion provide remote searching and registration capabilities through the Teraview software that were never before possible.