What does a chain of title refer to in land ownership?

A chain of title refers to the history of ownership affecting title to a parcel of land, illustrating the sequence of transactions, transfers, and legal claims made on that property over time. This includes details such as deeds, wills, and any encumbrances or claims that have been placed against the land. Understanding the chain of title is crucial in real estate transactions because it confirms the validity of ownership and helps to identify any potential issues, such as liens or disputes that may impact ownership rights.

The other options focus on different aspects of land management and ownership. A formal legal document asserting land rights pertains to specific instruments like deeds, which do not encompass the entire history of ownership. A record of land survey measurements relates to the physical layout and boundaries of a property rather than its title history. A type of land claim dispute resolution deals with how conflicts over land ownership are settled, but does not define the concept of a chain of title itself.