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Cor van Deventer's Articles

Why You Need a Rates Clearance Certificate for Property Transfer

A Rates Clearance Certificate is an official document issued by the local municipality confirming that all municipal charges linked to a property have been settled. This includes rates, water, electricity, refuse removal, and sewerage services — along with an advance payment covering a few months beyond the application date.

Drafting and Enforcing Contracts in South Africa

A contract is only enforceable under South African law if it meets certain essential requirements. At its core, a legally binding contract is an agreement between two or more parties with the intention to create enforceable obligations.

What Happens if You Cancel a Bond Without Notice

In most cases, South African banks require 90 days’ written notice before a bond can be cancelled. If this notice is not given, or if the bond is cancelled before the notice period expires, the bank is entitled to charge early termination fees. These costs are in addition to the standard legal and administrative fees involved in bond cancellation.

What to Expect During a Property Compliance Inspection

A property compliance inspection is a formal assessment carried out by a qualified inspector to determine whether certain features of a home meet South Africa’s safety regulations. These inspections focus on systems that pose a risk if they’re not correctly installed or maintained — such as electrical wiring, gas appliances, water systems, or electric fences.

How Estate Agent Commission is Negotiated and Paid in SA Property Sales

Estate agent commission in South Africa is not fixed by law. It varies widely based on the agent, the mandate agreement, the market conditions, and, crucially, what the seller agrees to upfront. This creates both an opportunity and a risk: sellers can often negotiate better terms, but they can also find themselves locked into unfavourable commission arrangements.

Joburg Deeds Office in Turmoil – How It’s Disrupting South Africa’s Property Market

The building at 101 Rissik Street, which has housed the Johannesburg Deeds Office for years, has been in a state of disrepair for some time. The situation escalated in April 2024 when a sewage leak flooded the basement, prompting widespread outcry and renewed pressure from the legal profession for decisive action.

What Is Company Liquidation and When Should You Consider It?

Company liquidation is a formal legal process used to wind up a business. It involves selling off the company’s assets, using the proceeds to pay off creditors, and ultimately deregistering the company.

Who Gets the House? Property Rights in Divorce

For many couples, the family home represents far more than bricks and mortar. It holds memories, a sense of security, and emotional significance — especially when children are involved.

Understanding the Best Interests of the Child in Divorce

When parents separate or divorce, decisions about where a child will live, who will care for them, and how they will be supported are among the most difficult and emotionally charged.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Divorce Process in South Africa

Divorce is one of the most emotionally and legally significant events a person can experience. Beyond the personal and family upheaval, it also involves a structured legal process that must be carefully followed to formally end a marriage in South Africa.

 

 

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