A phenomenological study of industry professionals' perceptions of ethics in the title insurance industry

This qualitative phenomenological study using Moustakas' (1994) modified van Kaam methodology explored business ethics in the title insurance industry in Florida through the experiences and perceptions of industry professionals. Four core themes emerged from one overriding premise: Ethics in the industry is better now than it was but still needs to be improved. Major themes extracted from the interviews included a need for: more consistent agent-compliance standards; improved audit and control from regulators and underwriters; better communications between agents and underwriters; and more education at all levels. Analysis of the study elicited recommendations for industry professionals that might strengthen the industry and minimize the need for further regulatory intervention. Study results also extracted suggestions for future research.