Which deed type provides the greatest protection to the grantee?

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

Answer: (A)

The strongest protection for a grantee comes from a deed that includes broad covenants of title. A general (warranty) deed provides the most protection because it guarantees the title against all defects and encumbrances, even those that occurred before the grantor’s ownership, and it obligates the grantor to defend the title in court if a claim arises. It typically includes covenants of seisin (ownership of the property), against encumbrances, quiet enjoyment, further assurances, and defense of title.

Quitclaim deeds offer no warranties at all—they simply transfer whatever interest the grantor has, which can leave the grantee vulnerable if there are undisclosed defects. Special warranty deeds limit protections to defects that occurred during the grantor’s ownership, not before. Bargain and sale deeds imply ownership but usually provide no covenants of title or guarantees against encumbrances. Thus, the general warranty deed provides the greatest protection to the grantee.