What happens if I lost my title deed?

Author
Kruger Attorneys & Conveyancers Inc
Kruger Attorneys & Conveyancers Inc is a specialised conveyancing practice, providing incomparable property law services through practical wisdom and trusted advice.

An application can be made to the Deeds Office for a duplicate original if a title deed is destroyed or lost. Before an application can be made, the intention to apply for a certified copy must be advertised in a newspaper and lie for inspection at the Deeds Office for 2 weeks. Should there be no objections, the application is made to the Deeds Office in the form of an Affidavit stating that the deed is actually lost or destroyed and that a diligent search has been made for the deed.

Once the Registrar is satisfied he will then issue a certified copy of the title deed which will, for all purposes, be treated as if it were the original. The application for a lost or destroyed deed can be made simultaneously in the Deeds Office with the lodgement of the transfer documents.

Property questions?
Get quick answers about buying, selling, renting, and more from our AI powered real estate bot
Legal Property News
Understanding power of attorney in property transactions
Legal
Understanding power of attorney in property transactions
14 Nov 2024
magine you're trying to sell a property in South Africa but are located overseas. Handling the transaction from afar is challenging, but with a power of attorney (POA), you can appoint a trusted representative to manage the process for you. In this article, we’ll cover what a POA is, how it works in property transactions, and what precautions you should take to protect yourself
read more
What happens to your home loan when the unforeseen happens?
Legal
What happens to your home loan when the unforeseen happens?
31 Oct 2024
Unforeseen life events like divorce, the death of a loved one, financial challenges, or a new partnership can turn even the most stable home loan into a stressful situation. Navigating a home loan under these conditions can be challenging, but understanding your options can help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary financial strain.
read more
Maximising tax deductions on rental properties: A guide for landlords
Legal
Maximising tax deductions on rental properties: A guide for landlords
16 Oct 2024
Renting out your property can be a rewarding way to generate extra income, but did you know it also comes with tax obligations? As a landlord in South Africa, you're required to report your rental income to SARS, which can eat into your profits. Fortunately, there are smart ways to reduce your tax liability and keep more of what you earn.
read more
How different marriage contracts affect homeownership in South Africa
Legal
How different marriage contracts affect homeownership in South Africa
14 Oct 2024
Purchasing a home as a married couple is an exciting milestone, but it's essential to take a long-term approach when considering real estate investments. It's important for couples to fully understand how their marriage contract will impact their shared homeownership, as the terms of the contract can influence their rights, responsibilities, and financial outcomes.
read more
Real Estate Tools
Get pre-qualified
Make offers with confidence knowing what you can afford. Then shop for the best home loan
Bond Calculator
Calculate the estimated repayments on a home loan and savings with extra payments