SDCL § 58-25-1: Application of chapter.

This chapter applies to all kinds and classes of insurance which insure or guarantee titles to real or leasehold property or any estate therein, or against loss by reason of defects, encumbrances, liens, or charges on real or leasehold property or any estate therein; or which insure or guarantee the validity, priority and status of real and leasehold property liens and estates; or which insure or guarantee the correctness and sufficiency of searches for instruments, liens, charges or other matters affecting the title to real or leasehold property or any estate therein. Any person making such guarantees or issuing such insurance shall be deemed to be engaged in the business of title insurance and is hereinafter referred to as "insurer."