Following a surge in social media posts claiming irregular transfers, forged signatures, unexpected changes to title deeds, and even intimidation, Paul Stevens, CEO of Just Property, says the trend is very frightening.
Among the posts on X to which Stevens is referring are:
“My mother is on her way to the police station after someone transferred her property in Mulbarton illegally to a fake company. They used her maiden name in the deed transfer, a fake signature, and a real ID number.”
“My father went to the municipality to pay the rates for one of his East Rand properties and found that the property was no longer in his name.”
“My mom [lost her unit] because of this. The culprit who started off as a tenant, stopped paying rent, electricity and water. When my mother went to the deeds office to get a few documents to prepare for court, the deed wasn’t in her name anymore.”
And: “Happened to a friend of mine and she's still fighting to get her place back.”
There are, however, ways to identify fraud and take action, Stevens emphasises. “There are safeguards in place - the key is to stay informed, monitor your assets, and act immediately if something doesn’t look right.”
How to check if you’re still the registered owner
According to Stevens, homeowners can confirm ownership for a minimal fee without needing to appoint an attorney for a formal investigation.
“The Deeds Office’s online portal, DeedsWEB, allows users to create a profile and run a property search using an ID number or erf details. While there is a prescribed fee for these searches, this is the most direct way to confirm that your name is still linked to your property.”
If the property is bonded, the bank provides an additional layer of protection, he continues.
“Banks hold the original title deed and are alerted to changes so you can contact your bond provider to verify your ownership status at no cost.”
Municipal accounts also offer a quick indicator, he notes further.
“Rates accounts are tied to the registered owner. If the name on your bill changes unexpectedly or if you suddenly stop receiving accounts, that is a major red flag that needs action.”
If you suspect fraud, act immediately
Some of the people writing about these incidents allege that they’re being intimidated or don’t know where to turn, says Stevens. “Again, I encourage them to approach the formal legal channels created to protect, investigate and offer advice. If you suspect foul play, one option is to open a case with the South African Police Service (SAPS) Commercial Crimes Unit and get a case (CAS) number. You then need to notify the Registrar of Deeds in writing with the CAS number, and request that a ‘caveat’ or a note be placed against the property title. This will help prevent further transfers while the matter is under investigation.”
What the courts have said
Referring to precedent-setting case law, Stevens says fraudulent transfers can be undone. Prominent cases include Botha NO v Leboko-Radebe (2022), where the High Court reaffirmed the principle that "fraud unravels all" and Nedbank Ltd v Mendelow (2013), which makes it clear that ownership cannot legally pass through a forged signature or a fraudulent process.
Practical steps to protect yourself
Stevens recommends adopting four essential safeguards for your property:
- Annual checks: Run a search on the DeedsWEB portal once a year.
- Keep details current: Ensure that your contact details and physical address are updated at the Deeds Office and with your municipality.
- Consult your conveyancer: Contact the attorney who handled your original transfer; they keep records and can often provide quick verification.
- Monitor vacant land: If you own a vacant property or you live far away, ask a trusted neighbour or a professional property manager to monitor the site for any unauthorised activity.
Industry responsibility
Stevens believes the property industry has to lead with facts rather than fear.
“We can’t ignore these reports, but we also shouldn’t fuel panic. By giving homeowners clear information and practical steps to secure their biggest assets, we protect both the individual and the overall confidence in the South African property market.”
Resource Guide & Contact Details
- DeedsWEB Portal: Online property searches can be conducted via the Official DeedsWEB Portal.
- National Deeds Call Centre: For general queries or to verify a property's status, contact 0800 007 095.
- SAPS Commercial Crimes Unit: Fraud cases should be reported to your local police station to obtain a CAS number.
- For priority commercial crime inquiries, contact the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) at 012 846 4590 or email CorruptionReports@saps.gov.za.
- SAPS Crime Stop: Anonymous tips regarding fraudulent syndicates can be reported to 08600 10111.
- Corruption Hotline: To report suspected official corruption within government departments (including the Deeds Office), call 0800 701 701.
