Van Deventer Dowlath & Marx Inc

18/06/2026

Trees are loved until they crack your wall, block your light, or end up in your neighbour's gutters.

At Van Deventer Dowlath & Marx, we're seeing tree-related property disputes rise sharply as urban areas densify and older suburbs mature.

What starts as a neighbourly irritation can quickly become a serious legal and financial liability, especially after severe storms or when protected indigenous species are involved.

Whether you're a homeowner, a body corporate trustee, or a developer managing common property, understanding where that line falls is no longer optional.

We break down what South African law says about storm-damage liability, body corporate obligations, the strict limits on self-help trimming, municipal street trees, and the criminal consequences of touching a protected indigenous tree without authorisation.

Read the full article in the comments 👇

17/06/2026

Proud to see our Associate Director, Jason Berkowitz , joining this panel discussion on the risks facing landlords in today's property market.

Looking forward to an informative conversation and practical insights for property owners and investors.

LANDLORD RISKS IN 2026

Rental fraud, tenant defaults, rising costs and legal compliance challenges are reshaping South Africa's rental market.

Join leading industry experts as they unpack the biggest risks facing landlords and investors in 2026, and the practical strategies to protect your property, income and peace of mind.

📅 18 June 2026 | 12:00–13:00

Register now: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/6517811859930/WN_iulpMnnaTReCY1mvemDHeQ

17/06/2026

Over 2.2 million South African identity numbers have already been unblocked. Is yours one that still needs attention?

If your identity document was blocked before November 2022, you have until 10 July 2026 to submit representations to the Department of Home Affairs. Miss that deadline, and your identity number could be permanently cancelled.

The department is conducting this process under the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act (PAJA), which means you are legally entitled to be heard before any adverse decision is finalised.

A cancelled identity number affects your ability to work, open or access a bank account, obtain credit, and conclude property transactions.

For anyone currently involved in a transfer or conveyancing matter, a blocked or cancelled ID can bring that process to a complete halt.

You must appear in person at any Home Affairs office (excluding refugee reception centres and banks) and submit both written and oral representations. Bring every supporting document you have: birth certificates, parents' IDs, school records, clinic cards, affidavits, and any other proof of identity or citizenship.

Reach out to us before the deadline if you need assistance.

16/06/2026

Today we celebrate the energy, ambition and potential of South Africa's youth.

From all of us at Van Deventer Dowlath & Marx Incorporated, we wish you a happy and inspiring Youth Day.

16/06/2026

Another fantastic review for the VDM Attorneys team, and a special mention to Virginia.

As our receptionist, Virginia is often the first person clients meet when they walk through our doors. She keeps the office running smoothly, welcomes clients, coordinates meeting rooms, assists visitors, and makes sure everyone receives the help they need from the moment they arrive.

First impressions matter, and Virginia's professionalism, warmth, and willingness to help set the tone for the entire VDM experience.

Thank you, Virginia, for everything you do behind the scenes and at the front of house. We appreciate you, and we're proud to have you as part of the team.

15/06/2026

Forgetting to update the paperwork isn't a legal strategy.

A recent High Court judgment confirmed that a life-rights scheme cannot use an administrative omission to evict an elderly widower from his home, with major implications for retirement village operators, trustees, and managing agents across South Africa.

Our Director, Johlene Wasserman, breaks down the three critical principles the court confirmed, why the PIE Act served as the second line of defence (not the first), and what every life-rights scheme needs to do differently today.

Read the full article below 👇

12/06/2026

Desks are overrated anyway.

The marketing team is wrapping up an incredibly busy week the only way they know how... surrounded by papers, planning for the future, and embracing the creative chaos!

Have a fantastic weekend, everyone! (And don't worry, we'll get Richard a chair by Monday 😂).

Richard Does Real Estate