Delays in obtaining a municipal clearance certificate remain one of the most common and frustrating risks in South African property transfers, particularly when transactions are time sensitive.
According to Antonie Goosen, principal and founder of Meridian Realty, these delays can quickly place an entire deal at risk if not managed proactively from the outset.
“A municipal clearance certificate is not just another administrative step, it is a legal requirement for transfer,” says Goosen. “If there is a delay, the entire transaction timeline is affected, and in some cases, it can lead to a deal collapsing.”
Goosen explains that the key to managing this risk lies in early preparation and constant follow up. “The biggest mistake is waiting until all conditions of sale are met before initiating the clearance process,” he says. “In practice, the process should begin as early as possible, often immediately after the offer to purchase is signed.”
