Which type of insurance serves to protect against defects in real property titles?

Title insurance is specifically designed to protect against defects in real property titles. This type of insurance assures the policyholder that their ownership of a property is legitimate and free from liens, encumbrances, or other defects that may not have been identified during the title search process. By providing coverage for issues such as disputes over ownership, errors in the public record, fraud, and claims that arise from undisclosed heirs or other unforeseen problems, title insurance offers peace of mind to both homeowners and lenders.

Homeowner's insurance primarily covers the structure of a home and personal belongings within it against risks such as theft, fire, and natural disasters. While it is essential for property owners, it does not address the specific concerns related to the ownership and legitimacy of the title itself. Property casualty insurance encompasses a broader range of coverages for property damage but does not focus on title defects. Mortgage insurance is designed to protect lenders in case a borrower defaults on their mortgage but does not relate to title issues.

Thus, title insurance uniquely addresses the complexities and potential risks associated with real property ownership, making it the correct answer.