Losing your title deed can be stressful, but the process of replacing it is straightforward when you know the steps to follow. At Nyota Njema Real Estate, we’re here to guide you through the legal and administrative process of obtaining a replacement title deed in Kenya, as outlined under the Land Registration Act of 2012.
Report the Loss to the Police
Visit the nearest police station and file a report about the loss of your title deed. Provide details of how the document was lost. You’ll be issued a police abstract, which serves as proof that you reported the loss.
Obtain a Letter from the Area Chief
Get a letter from the chief of the area where your land is located. This letter confirms that you are the rightful owner of the property and that the local administration is aware of the loss.
Place an Advertisement in a Local Daily Newspaper
Advertise the loss of your title deed in a nationally circulated newspaper, such as the Daily Nation or The Standard. The advertisement should include:
Details of the land (e.g., land reference number, location).
Circumstances of the loss.
Your intention to replace the title deed.
This step allows anyone who may have found the title deed to return it and gives others a chance to raise objections within 60 days.
Obtain a Map from the Survey of Kenya
Request a map from the Survey of Kenya showing the physical location, size, and boundaries of your land. This map ensures the land details match the records at the land registry and aids in the regeneration of a new title deed.
Swear an Affidavit at an Advocate’s Office
Visit an advocate or commissioner of oaths to draft and swear an affidavit of loss. The affidavit should include:
Your name and contact information.
Property details (e.g., land reference number, size, location).
Circumstances of the loss.
A statement declaring that you will surrender the original title deed if found.
Ensure the affidavit is signed, stamped, and dated.
Fill Out the LRA12 Form
Your advocate will help you complete the LRA12 Form (Application Form under the Land Registration Act). This form formalizes your request for a replacement title deed and must be submitted to the relevant Land Registrar.
Submit All Required Documents to the Land Registry
Gather the following documents and submit them to the Land Registry office:
Police abstract.
Letter from the area chief.
Copy of the newspaper advertisement.
Map from the Survey of Kenya.
Sworn affidavit.
Completed LRA12 Form.
Copy of your national ID and KRA PIN certificate.
Pay the Required Fees
The Land Registrar will advise you on the applicable fees for the replacement process. Make the payment and keep the receipt for your records.
Receive Your Replacement Title Deed
Once the Land Registrar verifies your documents, you’ll be issued a Replacement Title Deed. This document serves as the official proof of ownership, replacing the lost one.
