‘Without good cause in law’: Can a court order a sectional title owner to consent to a scheme extension?
Last month, the Supreme Court of Appeal (‘the SCA’) partially upheld an appeal by a body corporate seeking to force various owners in a sectional title scheme to consent to it obtaining a certificate of real right concerning the scheme’s extension – and to cede this right, which vested in it, to a third party.
Meet our Managing Director: Esteemed property law specialist, Darren Brander
A skilled and consummate Attorney and Conveyancer, Darren Brander manages our firm with equal parts finesse, composure, and fortitude. With 27 years of post-admission experience in the property law sphere, he runs an organised and successful conveyancing practice from STBB Cape Town. Darren’s expertise covers all facets of property law, conveyancing, and notarial practice, with a particular emphasis on commercial property finance transactions. Leveraging his robust business and legal acumen to solve problems innovatively and tactfully, Darren is committed to providing his clients with practical and cost-effective legal solutions.
Explainer: The curious case of beetle certificates
Under South African law, the transfer of property is subject to a seller – or purchaser, if otherwise agreed – obtaining various compliance certificates prior to lodgement and registration in the Deeds Registry. These certificates, which are statutorily mandated under the Regulations published in terms of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, are designed to ensure compliance with minimum safety standards. A clear exception to this legal framework, however, is the contractual requirement to obtain a beetle certificate.
Looking ahead: What’s in store for South Africa’s residential property market in 2025?
Against the backdrop of consecutive interest rate cuts and heightened investor confidence, property experts widely predict a relatively positive outlook for South Africa’s residential property market in 2025. For these industry specialists, the country’s property landscape will be characterised by several key trends.
Property transactions & foreign marriages: When and why is co-signing required?
With its scenic landscapes, favourable climate, and competitively priced real estate, South Africa remains a popular choice for foreign investors. As the country’s largest property law and conveyancing firm, STBB regularly handles property transactions involving foreign purchasers and sellers. In defined instances, spouses married in terms of foreign law are required to co-sign all documentation.
Replacing lost or misplaced title deeds: Essential information
In our first episode of 2025, Senior Associate and experienced conveyancer, Anusha Pitamber, joins us to discuss the legal and financial consequences of losing or misplacing your property’s title deed and the process of applying for a ‘VA copy’, which serves as a replacement. She further explains the application for replacing a damaged title deed. Whether you’re a homeowner with a non-bonded property, estate agent negotiating a deal, or curious potential purchaser, tune in now for practical legal advice on this conveyancing hurdle.
