Which covenant protects the buyer from being disturbed by legal claims on the property?

The covenant that best protects the buyer from being disturbed by legal claims on the property is the covenant of quiet enjoyment. This covenant ensures that the buyer will have the right to use and enjoy the property without interference from others claiming a legal right to it. Essentially, it provides a guarantee that the buyer will not face any disruptions from prior claims or interests that could affect their ownership or enjoyment of the property.

This covenant also implies that the seller will defend the buyer against any claims that may arise, thereby reinforcing the buyer's peaceful enjoyment and control over the property. By ensuring that no one can legally disturb the buyer’s possession, the covenant of quiet enjoyment plays a crucial role in real estate transactions, giving the buyer confidence in their purchase.

The other options, while relevant in different ways, do not specifically address the concern of legal claims disturbing the buyer's rights. The covenant against encumbrances pertains to the existence of certain burdens or claims on the title, but it does not provide the same level of protection from disturbances. The covenant of warranty relates more to the seller's promise to defend the title against claims, and third-party transfer rights concern the ability to transfer ownership rather than protecting against legal claims affecting enjoyment.