Department of Deeds Registry

Botswana’s Department of Deeds Registry is a government office responsible for officially recording and preserving legal documents related to land ownership and other real rights. It serves as a central and authoritative public record for land transactions and associated legal matters.

The legal foundation for the Deeds Registry is established under the Deeds Registry Act (Chapter 33:02), which outlines its structure, responsibilities, and the procedures for document registration.

Core Functions of the Deeds Registry

• Registration of Title Deeds
  The Registry’s main role is to register and keep accurate records of land ownership documents (title deeds).

• Registration of Real Rights
  It also records other real rights tied to land, such as mortgage bonds, long-term leases, and servitudes.

• Public Access
  As a public record, the Registry is open to individuals and institutions seeking to verify land ownership or other registered rights.

• Legal Validity
  Documents registered with the Deeds Registry acquire legal force, making transactions official, enforceable, and protected under the law.

• Title Deeds – Proof of ownership of land or property.

• Mortgage Bonds – Agreements securing a loan with property as collateral.

• Leases – Agreements granting temporary rights to occupy or use land.

• Servitudes – Rights allowing use of another person’s land for specific purposes (e.g., right of way).

• Other Documents – This includes ante-nuptial contracts, powers of attorney, and general plans for surveyed land.