It is important to conduct a title search at the land registry to determine the owner of the land on which the building will be erected. This information is essential if a subcontractor wants to denounce a construction contract to the owner, in accordance with the Civil Code of Quebec, or to notify them of a legal mortgage.

It would be risky to assume that the person who signs a construction contract for a building or who is registered in the municipality's assessment roll is actually the owner of the land.

A title search will determine if the work has been requested by:

• The owner;
• The lessee;
• A trustee;
• The superficiary;
• The syndicate of co-owners;
• The holder of a purchase offer;
• A tenant;
• A person who has no rights.

Since denunciation is the basis of a legal mortgage, it is important to consult a specialized notary because:

• they will conduct the title search to verify the identity of the property owner;
• they are required to have liability insurance.