Kwatsaduza elders are informed about registering for title deeds and assets
Residents are urged to stay away from a deceased's assets until the matter has been concluded by the Master of the High Court.
Kwa-Thema- Elderly residents attended a public participation workshop last Wednesday regarding ownership, title deeds and the transfer of ownership of houses.
Ward 74 councillor Thulani Simelane identified a high number of residents, especially the elderly, struggling with changing ownership of homes they inherited from deceased parents.
Simelane explained residents are approaching him daily about struggles with registration and transfer of houses and other assets that were left behind by deceased parents or partners.
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“This is one of the biggest challenges we are facing in the ward but I believe, through this workshop, many will be better informed,” he added.
Nhlanhla Melula from the City of Ekurhuleni explained the only office that can issue title deeds is the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development under their Deeds office.
“Our offices are not mandated to issue copies of a title deed because only the deeds office can do that.
“Photocopied certified and laminated title deeds cannot be used as proof of ownership. One has to approach the deeds office for a legal copy.
“We can issue title deeds only to the registered owners and not to relatives or family members. We can also only make provisions when the owner/s are deceased and the relevant documents are provided.
“We are also encouraging residents to collect their title deeds at their local offices,” she explained.
She added family members and beneficiaries can approach the local offices where they will be advised accordingly.
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Anastacia Tladi from the Department of Justice urged residents to stay away from a deceased’s assets until the Master of the High Court has concluded the matter.
“Residents who cannot afford a lawyer/executor can approach Legal Aid or pro-bono lawyers who will assist them for free.
“We see a lot of residents being swindled out of their money by individuals claiming to be able to assist them,” she added.
She stated a letter of authority cannot be used as proof of ownership.
“You don’t own and cannot sell the assets, and is only appointed as a caretaker,” she added.
The attendees were urged to register their wills detailing the beneficiaries of their assets.
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