What happens if I lost my title deed?

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.