Urban Pro–Poor Registrations: Complex–Simple the Overstrand Project
Abstract
Low–cost housing which has been disposed of by private owners is extremely difficult for
conveyancers to register. The law as it stands is often incapable of giving effect to the
business transactions of the poor, thereby creating insecurity of tenure nationwide. The
Land Titles Adjustment Act 111 of 1993 is currently the only legislation capable of
dealing with this impasse. The Overstrand Municipality has provided the staff and
infrastructure to run a pilot project under the Act, for which it is awaiting confirmation
from the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform. This article discusses
the legal issues arising and the potential of such an initiative to provide consumer
protection for the low–literate and other vulnerable holders of rights.