This argument generally works pretty well. Several years ago I had a title company that tried to get cute about it. I sent in a seach with a bill. They then wanted to change the parameters of the search to include other parties. When I told them that this constituted a new search which required an additional fee they got rather nasty about it. I told them that the search was my property until paid for and to either forward immediate payment or return my property (title search) to me. They made immediate payment.

Very often the title company has its back to the wall in terms of time. They have a closing date fast approaching, and need to complete a Hud 1 form showing the various costs and expences of the closing. If they do not close on time the borrower's rate lock may expire.

Some other things to consider are that using the search without paying for it may constitute theft of services in some states, larcency or possibly federal mail fraud.