Property & Housing
Sectional Title
Sectional title is a form of property ownership for individual units (flats, townhouses) within a development. Owners belong to a body corporate that manages the common property.
Legal Definition
Governed by the Sectional Titles Act 95 of 1986 and the Sectional Titles Schemes Management Act 8 of 2011. Each owner holds a registered title to their section and an undivided share in the common property. A body corporate (all owners) manages and maintains the scheme.
📖 Constitutional / Statutory Basis: Section 25, Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996; Sectional Titles Schemes Management Act 8 of 2011
Practical Example
You buy a flat in a sectional title complex. You own your flat (section) and share in the common areas. You pay a monthly levy to the body corporate for maintenance, insurance, and management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the body corporate make rules binding on owners?
Yes. The Prescribed Management Rules and Conduct Rules bind all owners and tenants. Additional conduct rules can be adopted by special resolution.
What if I don't pay levies?
The body corporate can obtain judgment against you and register a real right of extension over your section. Persistent non-payment can lead to sale in execution.
Who resolves disputes in a sectional title scheme?
The Community Schemes Ombud Service (CSOS) handles disputes between owners, tenants, and bodies corporate — at low cost.
Related Terms
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