Legal Insights and Updates

Buying or selling a property in South Africa involves a complex legal process , and one of the most important steps in this journey is lodgement at the Deeds Office. Many clients ask, " How long does registration take after lodgement? " The short answer is: typically between 7 to 10 working days, but this timeline can vary depending on a range of factors. In this blog, Jonker Vorster Attorneys unpacks the post-lodgement process, expected timelines, and what you can do to avo

Understanding Lease Cancellation in South Africa Leases establish clear agreements between landlords and tenants, outlining the rights and responsibilities of both parties. However, there are instances where a landlord may need to terminate a lease agreement before its expiration. South African rental laws  provide strict guidelines to ensure that lease cancellations are fair and legally enforceable. This guide explores the circumstances under which a landlord can cancel a l

Understanding Tenant Rights Without a Lease Agreement Many tenants in South Africa occupy properties without a formal lease agreement. While this situation can create uncertainty, the law still protects tenant rights under the Rental Housing Act  and Consumer Protection Act . Understanding these rights is crucial for both tenants and landlords to navigate rental disputes and avoid legal conflicts. How Long Can a Tenant Stay Without Paying Rent? A tenant cannot be evicted with

Understanding Tenant Rights in South Africa Eviction is a stressful and often overwhelming experience, especially when a tenant has nowhere to go. However, South African law provides legal protections to tenants, ensuring that landlords follow the correct procedures before removing a tenant from a property. This blog explores the rights of tenants, the legal eviction process, and what options are available if you are facing eviction with no alternative accommodation. Is It L

Purchasing a property is a significant investment, but buying a house with existing tenants adds another layer of legal and financial considerations. Whether you're a property investor or a homeowner looking to move in, it's essential to understand your rights, the tenant's rights, and the legal obligations associated with such a purchase. Understanding the Legal Principle: Huur Gaat Voor Koop One of the most critical legal principles governing tenanted property sales in Sou

In South Africa, sectional title property owners often find themselves in disputes with their body corporate  over issues like levies , maintenance, rule enforcement, and financial transparency. Understanding owners' rights against body corporate is crucial in ensuring fair treatment and compliance with sectional title laws. This article explores owners' legal rights, the responsibilities of a body corporate, and the role of the Community Schemes Ombud Service ( CSOS ) in res

When a property owner passes away, the transfer of their estate  to beneficiaries is a legal process that must be handled correctly. Understanding deceased estate property transfer costs, estate attorney fees, and the legal process is crucial for avoiding delays and unexpected expenses. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of transferring property from a deceased estate in South Africa, the costs involved, and the legal fees required to ensure a smooth tr

When selling property in South Africa , you’ll often encounter the terms sole mandate and open mandate . Understanding these concepts is crucial to making the right decision for your property sale. A sole mandate is a legal agreement between a property seller and a single estate agent, granting that agent exclusive rights to market and sell the property for a specified period. This blog explores the requirements, benefits, and potential drawbacks of a sole mandate to help y

Evicting a tenant in South Africa can be a challenging process, especially when the tenant refuses to pay rent. The Prevention of Illegal Eviction from and Unlawful Occupation of Land Act (PIE Act)  governs the eviction process, ensuring fairness for both landlords and tenants. Understanding and following the correct legal steps is crucial to avoid complications. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to evict a tenant  legally. Why Is the Evic

Cape Town Buying a property is an exciting milestone, but many first-time homebuyers in Cape Town overlook the additional costs beyond...

Navigating bond cancellation can be complex, especially for first-time property sellers or those unfamiliar with the legal processes involved. In South Africa, cancelling a bond before or after the sale of property requires a comprehensive understanding of bond cancellation figures, how they are calculated, and what timelines to expect. In this guide by Jonker Vorster Attorneys , we’ll break down the essential steps, key considerations, and frequently asked questions about b

Understanding the conveyancing process is essential for anyone involved in a property transaction.

Selling a property in South Africa involves more than just finding the right buyer and signing a sales agreement. To ensure the...

Property transactions in South Africa can be complex, involving various legal documents, compliance requirements, and the potential for...

Navigating the complex landscape of property law in South Africa can be challenging without the right legal expertise. Whether you're...

Purchasing property in South Africa is an exciting milestone, but the property transfer process  can seem complex. Understanding each...