With a gradual drop predicted for interest rates early in 2026, South Africa’s property market is off to a promising start. For many buyers and sellers, this creates the ideal moment to move, invest, or restructure. But even in a positive market, one thing remains the same: a property transfer only moves as fast as its compliance.
Below, we outline the key compliance checks that matter most at the start of the year, followed by an important look at why early preparation is essential and how Wright Rose-Innes ensures your property transfer stays on track.
The compliance essentials: what must be in place early
We see the same pattern at the start of every year: rising market activity places heavy pressure on inspectors, municipal offices, banks, and the Deeds Office. Transfers that should register quickly often stall because a certificate expired in December, a levy account hasn’t been updated, or a simple FICA document is missing. Getting ahead of the following requirements ensures your transaction moves forward smoothly and lawfully.
- Mandatory certificates and inspections: Electrical, plumbing, gas, electric fence, and other required inspection certificates must be valid and up to date. Inspectors’ schedules fill up rapidly in January and February, so securing these assessments as early as possible is crucial for avoiding delays.
- Municipal and levy clearances: Rates clearance certificates and levy clearance certificates are essential for transfer. Because municipalities return from the festive period with significant backlogs, fully paid accounts and early applications make the difference between a smooth lodgement and weeks of waiting.
- FICA and identification requirements: Both the buyer and seller must provide verified identification, proof of address, tax numbers, and (when requested) source-of-funds information. These requirements must be in place before any transfer can progress.
- Transfer duty compliance: If applicable, the buyer must pay transfer duty to SARS before lodgement. Buyers should be aware of updated thresholds or rate changes expected for the new tax year.
How we support smooth transfers in 2026
By promptly initiating these compliance steps after signing the offer, we help minimise potential delays. This is where Wright Rose-Innes adds real value. Our conveyancing team manages, tracks, and verifies every requirement proactively, ensuring that no certificate lapses unnoticed, no clearance stalls without follow-up, and no document reaches the Deeds Office without being fully compliant.
With more than 120 years of conveyancing expertise, we understand both the legal process and the practical realities of making every part of your property deal count. We maintain close communication with buyers, sellers, agents, inspectors, municipalities, banks, and Deeds Office staff. This enables us to anticipate pressure points long before they affect your transfer.
As the 2026 property season begins with renewed energy, the real advantage lies in being ready early. With Wright Rose-Innes managing your transfer, you gain a legal partner who prioritises momentum, compliance, and your peace of mind.
Start your 2026 transfer on a strong footing
Disclaimer: This article is the personal opinion/view of the author(s) and does not necessarily present the views of the firm. The content is provided for information only and should not be seen as an exact or complete exposition of the law. Accordingly, no reliance should be placed on the content for any reason whatsoever, and no action should be taken on the basis thereof unless its application and accuracy have been confirmed by a legal advisor. The firm and author(s) cannot be held liable for any prejudice or damage resulting from action taken based on this content without further written confirmation by the author(s).