Discover
First, thoroughly search for the title deed to ensure it is indeed lost. Check with the Housing Development Board (HDB) if it is an HDB flat, or with the Singapore Land Authority (SLA) for private properties, to confirm if the title deed was officially released to you.
If the title deed is confirmed lost, submit an eFeedback to HDB (for HDB flats) or apply to the Registrar of Titles (for private properties) to report the loss. For HDB flats, an HDB officer will typically contact you within 5 working days to guide you on the next steps.
You will need to apply for a new title deed. For HDB flats, HDB's legal team will assist in preparing the necessary documents, including the Sale and Purchase Agreement (SD) and the Application for Subsidiary Certificate of Title (ASCT). For private properties, you must convince the Registrar of Titles that the title deed is lost, destroyed, or wrongfully withheld from you.
You will be required to sign forms provided by HDB or the SLA. For HDB flats, this involves signing the ASCT form, which will then be lodged and registered with the SLA before the completion of the sale.
The SLA typically takes about 2 to 3 weeks to process and issue a new title deed. Ensure that the registration fee for the ASCT and any conveyancing fees are paid promptly.
It is advisable to engage a conveyancing lawyer to assist with the application and ensure all supporting documents are accurately filed. This can expedite the process of replacing the title deed and completing the sale.
Once the new title deed is issued, the land registry will be updated to reflect the new ownership. This step is crucial for ensuring the legitimacy of the sale and protecting the buyer’s interests.