Navjot is purchasing a property in Edmonton. His lawyer informs him about the Torrens System of land registration. Which of the following best describes a key principle of the Torrens System as applied in Alberta?

Question: Navjot is purchasing a property in Edmonton. His lawyer informs him about the Torrens System of land registration. Which of the following best describes a key principle of the Torrens System as applied in Alberta?

Answer options: ✅ It provides a conclusive register of title, meaning the certificate of title is proof of ownership without needing to investigate past transactions.

• It relies on common law principles where the longest continuous possession of land dictates ownership.
• It requires a physical inspection of the land by a government surveyor prior to every transfer of ownership.
• It ensures that all previous encumbrances are automatically removed upon sale unless explicitly re-registered.

Correct answer: It provides a conclusive register of title, meaning the certificate of title is proof of ownership without needing to investigate past transactions.

Explanation: The Torrens System, as implemented through Alberta's Land Titles Act, operates on the principle of 'indefeasibility of title,' where the Certificate of Title is considered conclusive evidence of ownership and all registered interests. This simplifies land transactions by removing the need for historical title searches.