A small debt shouldn’t cost you your home
The question of whether a person’s home may be sold in execution to satisfy a relatively small debt raises profound constitutional concerns in South Africa, where the right of access to adequate housing is firmly entrenched. While creditors are entitled to enforce...
CSOS or Court? The choice is yours
The recent judgment in Parch Properties 72 (Pty) Ltd v Summervale Lifestyle Estate Owner’s Association and Others 2026 (1) SA 449 (SCA) (17 October 2025) has brought welcome clarity to the long‑standing question of whether the Community Schemes Ombud Service Act 9 of...
Customary and Civil marriages are equal, says Constitutional Court
The Constitutional Court has recently delivered a significant judgment reaffirming that customary marriages and civil marriages hold equal legal status. Importantly, the Court clarified the implications and validity of antenuptial contracts within the context of...
Before the hammer falls: Key tips for auction buyers
Purchasing a property at an auction often feels like a once‑in‑a‑lifetime opportunity, with the thrill of competitive bidding, the possibility of securing a bargain, and the pressure of acting quickly. However, beneath this excitement lies a complex legal and...
Your will may need a passport!
The world is smaller than ever - South African families increasingly own property in Portugal, hold shares in the US, or have children studying in London. Yet while your life may be global, the law remains stubbornly local. This article explains why a single South...
When levies rise: What owners must know
In South Africa, levies in sectional title and similar community schemes are the cornerstone of funding for maintenance, operations, insurance, and future repairs. However, when levies are increased, particularly when the increases appear excessive, owners often...
Litigation costs, simplified
Civil litigation costs refer to the legal expenses involved in initiating and pursuing a lawsuit or application. These costs include, for example, the issuing of summons, the drafting of affidavits, pleadings, and notices exchanged between the parties until the court...
Dealing with Defects After Buying a Home
You've moved into your new home, and suddenly things start going wrong. A damp patch appears out of nowhere, the lights trip when you turn on a switch, or a small crack starts spreading. It's unsettling, especially when you're unsure what the law allows once you've...
Executor Fees in South Africa Explained
Most families only think about executor fees when someone passes away, and the uncertainty often adds strain during an already difficult time. People worry about estate administration costs, delays at the Master’s Office, and whether the executor’s fee will reduce...
Digital Signatures in South Africa: What’s Allowed and What’s Not?
The rise of digital transformation has brought electronic document signing platforms to the forefront, making it easier to sign contracts and important documents remotely. But are these digital signatures legally binding? Let's break it down. Understanding...











