Obtaining all lien and emcumbrance information

[Sid Liso]

Hello all, I am new hear and have been researching for awhile now. I understand that you can obtain lien information for yourself from the county clerks officer (or you locations equivalent). What I would like to know is how can you verify other debts or encumbrances (for lack of a better word) that are not liens on the title? 

For example, I read somewhere that a county or even an hoa can impose certain requirements (like updated sewer connections or something) which may need to be met by the new owner and these items may not be posted as title liens. 

I hope I am making sense. Thanks for any advice in advance.