Do I get the advance rates payment back?

Yes. Any advance paid for the clearance period beyond the transfer date is refunded to you (or offset against the buyer's account) after the property is registered in the buyer's name.

Municipal & Utilities

How to Get a Municipal Rates Clearance Certificate

When you sell a property in South Africa, the conveyancer needs a rates clearance certificate from the municipality proving all rates, taxes and services on the property are paid up.

Who needs this

Sellers of any residential, commercial or agricultural property — always requested by the transferring attorney.

What you need before you start

Rates clearance application form (from the municipality)
Copy of the title deed / erf number
Seller's ID and proof of ownership
Advance payment of rates, refuse, sewerage for the clearance period (usually 4–6 months ahead)

Step-by-step process

1
Conveyancer requests the figures
The transferring attorney contacts the municipality to request 'clearance figures' — a quote of what must be paid in advance.
2
Pay the clearance figures
The seller pays the quoted amount to the municipality. This is not a fee — it is an advance on future rates and services and is refunded pro rata after transfer.
3
Municipality issues the certificate
Once payment reflects, the municipality issues the rates clearance certificate directly to the conveyancer.
4
Transfer registers at the Deeds Office
The conveyancer lodges the certificate with the transfer documents at the Deeds Office to register the sale.

Where, how much, how long

Where to submit

Your local municipality (via the conveyancer). Large metros have online rates portals.

Fees

Certificate fee varies by municipality — TODO: confirm. The main cost is the advance on rates & services.

Processing time

Typically 2–4 weeks from application. TODO: confirm at your metro.

Common rejection reasons

Outstanding historical debt on the account
Water or electricity meter reading disputes

Official sources

SALGA — municipal information

Always confirm the latest requirements and fees on the official website before submitting.

Frequently asked questions

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