Special Alert: SA2022115

Dear Associates:

We have been advised that there are or may be interruptions in the recording, searching, and/or indexing of the land records in certain jurisdictions that rely on Cott Systems, Inc., a national provider of records management systems. This may affect land records offices in multiple jurisdictions in several states. Cott Systems has advised that they are working on the situation.

Effective immediately, before issuing a commitment, closing a transaction, or issuing a policy, issuing offices are required to check with their local land records office to ascertain whether the land records office utilizes Cott Systems, and if so, whether the land records office is functioning normally.

If the land records office reports normal functioning, you may continue to issue commitments, close transactions, and issue policies for property in the jurisdiction.

If the land records office reports other than normal functioning, please ascertain specifically what customary functions are not available. For example, the land records office may not be available for electronic searches or electronic recording, but it may still accept in-person presentation of documents for physical recording.

If the land records office reports other than normal functioning, please communicate the exact status of the land records office to your State Stewart Title Guaranty Company Underwriter.

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