A quitclaim deed is a deed that transfers whatever property interest the grantor has, without promising that the grantor owns good title.
In plain language, the grantor is saying, “Whatever interest I have, I give to you.” The grantor is not making the same title guarantees that may appear in other deed types.
Why it matters
Quitclaim deeds matter because they are often used to clear or shift possible interests between people who already know the property situation. They can be useful in family transfers, divorce-related transfers, ownership cleanups, or title corrections.
They also matter because a quitclaim deed can transfer very little if the grantor has no valid interest to transfer.
Where it appears
Quitclaim deeds appear in county land records, divorce property transfers, estate cleanups, title corrections, intra-family transfers, and quiet-title disputes.
Practical example
A former spouse signs a quitclaim deed transferring any remaining interest in a home to the other spouse after divorce. The deed transfers whatever interest the signer has, but it does not guarantee clean title.
How it differs from nearby terms
A quitclaim deed differs from a warranty deed. A warranty deed usually includes title promises; a quitclaim deed generally does not.
It also differs from title, which refers to legal ownership or ownership rights in the property.
Related terms
Quick knowledge check
Question: What does a quitclaim deed usually transfer?
Answer: Whatever property interest the grantor has, without strong title guarantees.