FAQs

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How do I check my credit rating?

You can have your credit record checked for free in your birthday month. The Credit Information Ombud suggests that you check your credit record at least once a year to avoid nasty surprises.

Every citizen is entitled to one free copy of his/her credit record per year (your birthday month) – make sure you get this copy, that the contents are correct, and keep your copy in a safe place. There are 2 companies that you can contact: www.transunion.co.za 0861 482 482 / www.mycredit.co.za Experian 0861 105 665. You can also get a copy of your credit record any time at a cost of R22.80 from the companies above.

If there is something that you do not agree with, the Ombud will assist you, but follow the procedure as described on their website www.creditombud.org.za/ Phone 086 166 2837.

What is the difference between sectional title and full title?

Sectional title means that you are buying a unit or section in a building. You will have ownership of the specific unit as well as an undivided share (in accordance with your unit’s size) in all the common property on the scheme, for example gardens, swimming pool,roads,etc. Levies in accordance with your unit’s size is payable monthly.

Full title means that you are buying a house/stand that belongs to you, and you as the owner take full responsibility for all the costs involved, e.g. Rates/taxes/maintenance/gardens/driveways/pools, etc. It means that the buildings and the land belongs to you, and gets registered as such in the deeds office.

Which costs are included in a levy?

In sectional title a levy normally includes the following:

Rates and taxes
Sewer
Water (all the owners’ water usage as well as the common property)
Electricity (in common areas like corridors/entrance lights)
Refuse removal
Insurance of the buildings (structure)
Security systems/guards
Maintenance of common property (clubhouse/swimming pool,etc)
Garden Services
Use of the facilities

Sometimes "special levies" get implemented by the body corporate for maintenance like painting on the outside/ upgrade of security, etc. This is a levy added to the normal levy and runs for a fixed period of time.

What is common property?

Common property is defined as any area which does not form part of your unit, but of the complex. Common property will include all the land, passages,stairways,driveways,roofs,staff quarters,wash lines, bin areas, gardens, swimming pool,etc. The common property is managed by the body corporate.