Updated Fee Structure for Lodgement and Deeds Office Services

What You Need to Know

The Chief Registrar of Deeds has issued Circular No. 2 of 2025, which explains the amended Schedule of Office Fees in terms of Regulation 84 of the Deeds Registries Act, 1937. These changes, published in Government Gazette No. 52191 on 28 February 2025, will take effect on 1 April 2025.

These changes impact lodgement fees, notarial lease registrations, mortgage bond consents, and document transmission costs.

At Snymans, we are committed to keeping our clients informed and prepared. Below is a summary of the key amendments and what they may mean for you:

1. New Lodgement Fee

A lodgement fee of R50 per deed or document has been implemented, excluding RDP housing transactions. This fee applies to each lodgement cover, including re-lodgements following rejection or withdrawal.

2. Notarial Lease Registration Fees

A fee is now applicable for the registration of notarial leases, sub-leases, and cessions of leases. The amount is determined based on the lease value or consideration.

3. Mortgage Bond Consent Fees

Where additional registrations require consent under a registered mortgage bond—such as consolidations, subdivisions, part payments, cessions, or substitutions—a new fee will apply. Each consent must be submitted in a separate lodgement cover.

4. Revised Fees for Copies of Deeds and Documents

The cost structure for obtaining copies of deeds or documents (via an electronic system or through the registrar) has been updated, with fees now charged per document rather than per page.

5. Fees for Electronic Viewing and Downloads

A fee has been introduced for viewing or downloading deeds and documents via electronic platforms.

6. Transmission Fees

New fees apply to the transmission of any certificate, deed, document, or information via fax or electronic media. Charges are calculated per copy transmitted.

7. Advance Payment Requirement

In accordance with the amended Regulation 4A of the Deeds Registries Act, all prescribed fees must be paid in advance before services will be rendered by the Deeds Office.

8. Exemptions

Certain transactions remain exempt from these fees where legislation provides for specific exemptions.

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How Does This Affect You?

These changes will have a direct impact on property transactions from 1 April 2025.

The recent fee adjustments by the Deeds Office will impact individuals and businesses involved in property transactions. Higher costs can be expected due to the introduction of lodgement, notarial lease, and mortgage bond consent fees. A R50 lodgement fee now applies to every submission, including re-lodgements after rejection, making accuracy in documentation more important than ever.

Additionally, new fees for viewing, downloading, and obtaining copies of deeds or documents may increase administrative expenses. All prescribed fees must now be paid in advance, meaning transactions could be delayed if payments are not processed on time. Mortgage bond consents must also be lodged separately, adding to administrative complexity.

While certain transactions remain exempt from these fees, it is essential to verify eligibility. To avoid unnecessary costs and delays, ensure documents are correctly prepared, budget for new fees, and process payments promptly.

At Snymans, we are here to guide you through the process and ensure your transactions proceed smoothly under the new requirements.

Whether you are buying, selling, registering leases, or consolidating properties, it is important to understand how the updated fee structure applies.

📞 Get in touch with our team today if you have questions or need assistance.

Written by: Marthinus van der Linde
Moderated and approved by: Jean-Mari De Beer -Le Grange

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