Question 8
How do I sign any deeds that are sent to me?
The following instructions provide help for individuals signing deeds all in accordance with The Requirements of Writing Act that came into force in 1995. It is important, for the validity of the document that it is signed properly, and individuals should therefore read these guidelines before signing the document.
The grantor or grantee and one witness must sign the document.
The grantor or grantee of the document must: -
- Read the document carefully.
- SIGN on the last page of the document (and the last or only page of any Inventory, Plan or Schedule attached to the document) with his or her usual signature, where indicated.
- Sign in the PRESENCE of one witness or verbally acknowledge the signature to him/her.
The witness must: -
- Be an adult.
- Witness the signing or hear the grantor or grantees acknowledge the signature(s).
- SIGN on the last page only (NOT the Schedule, Inventory or Plan).
- Write the word “witness” in his/her OWN HANDWRITING, after his/her signature.
- Know the grantor.
When returning documents to us please advise us of the full name and address of the witness and the date and place of signing.
