Dept to rectify title deeds of 37 homeowners after wrongful properties transferred in Mamelodi

Gauteng Human Settlements Department to Rectify Wrongly Issued Title Deeds in Nellmapius

The Gauteng Human Settlements department has acknowledged the issuance of 37 title deeds to homeowners in Nellmapius was done erroneously. As a corrective measure, the department will engage a new panel of attorneys to rectify the situation.

Background

Tshwane metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo disclosed that in 2021, a joint initiative by the Tshwane metro and the Gauteng government aimed at providing security of tenure to homeowners resulted in 37 properties in Nellmapius Ext 1 (Proper) being registered under incorrect ownership.

Mashigo highlighted that the primary task for the appointed attorney would be to retrieve the mistakenly issued title deeds as they are essential for further processing.

Current Situation

Beneficiaries who have been awaiting their title deeds for over three decades have been affected by this administrative error. Additionally, there are still more homeowners in Nellmapius Proper and Nellmapius Ext 1 awaiting the issuance of their title deeds.

The crux of the issue lies in the misallocation of addresses, where title deeds for properties in Nellmapius Ext 1 bear addresses corresponding to homes in Nellmapius Proper. According to Mashigo, the transfer of ownership was erroneous due to this address discrepancy.

Resident Concerns

Recently, 37 families who relocated from Eersterust to Nellmapius in 1994 raised concerns about residing in the area for 30 years without possessing their rightful title deeds. Willeminah Jafta, representing these families, emphasized the prolonged wait for what she claimed are rightfully owned properties.

Jafta mentioned persistent efforts to communicate with relevant authorities over the years through various channels but to no avail. She expressed frustration over the delay in receiving the promised title deeds.

Resolution Process

The Tshwane metro initiated the retrieval of erroneously issued title deeds from homeowners in July of this year. The attorneys are currently drafting Rectification Agreements, which will require the affected beneficiaries’ signatures.

In cases where approved beneficiaries have passed away, their heirs are required to obtain necessary documentation from the office of the Master. The entire rectification process, including the signing of agreements, lodgement, and issuance of rectified titles, is expected to conclude within three months.

Continuing Challenges

Residents in Nellmapius Ext 1, aside from the title deed issue, face challenges such as irregular utility bills and difficulties in settling outstanding payments. Berend Cloete, who purchased a house in 1999, highlighted his continued struggle since 2006 in obtaining his title deed.

Cloete underscored the predicament faced by heirs of deceased property owners who are unable to secure title deeds despite providing the required documentation.

For further information on this matter, please contact [email protected] or call 083 625 4114.

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Source: The Citizen