The rundown on rental deposits
Rental relationships can put individuals in precarious situations, something that has become all too clear amid the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Landlords are, however, aware of the possibility of unforeseen events turning a mutually beneficial arrangement on its head and thus prepare accordingly for these eventualities. This is why rental deposits are a staple of every rental agreement. One of the primary uses of rental deposits […]
The economic impact of the pandemic
A business interruption insurance policy typically caters for a decrease in turnover or profit (depending on the type of cover); an increase in operating expenses and a move to a temporary location (if necessary). The question arises whether or not COVID-19 qualifies as an insured event which could lead to a valid and enforceable insurance […]
Does force majeure apply during COVID-19
Common Law position – in absence of a “force majeure” clause A force majeure is an act of God or man (such as a war, strike, riot, crime, plague, or an event described such as a hurricane, flood, earthquake, volcanic eruption, etc.), that is unforeseeable, out of the reasonable control of the parties to a […]
Socially distanced property viewings
The real estate industry has always been known for utilising the latest technologies available to bring buyers and sellers together. From announcements at Town Hall gatherings to the printing presses, the introduction of radios and television sets in households, and finally the World Wide Web, property practitioners have always been on the lookout for the […]
Why an ‘assisted/quick sale’ must be the last resort for a distressed property owner
Just as vultures begin to circle a wounded animal in its final death throes, estate agencies are pedalling ‘assisted sales’ or ‘quick sales’ as the solution to the COVID-19 related problems of many a property owner. “An assisted sale or quick sale has been the main source of revenue for many estate agents in troubled […]
The property market’s road to recovery
The COVID-19 crisis has had an unprecedented impact on the property market, with the extended lockdown adding more uncertainty to the road to the market’s recovery. In an effort to lessen the effect of the lockdown on the property market, many high-level discussions have been held to consider the possibility of having the Deeds Office […]
