Government agencies shape every stage of the conveyancing process in Jamaica. They set the legal framework, keep official land records, and collect taxes that must be settled before a deal can close. Knowing what each agency does—and when to engage with them—keeps transactions on schedule and prevents unpleasant surprises. At Conveyance Lawyers JA, our lawyers liaise with these offices daily, ensuring full compliance and quick turnaround for our clients.
Understanding the distinction between these professionals is vital for navigating the complex landscape of Jamaican property laws.
National Land Agency (NLA)
The National Land Agency is the centrepiece of Jamaican land administration and the hub through which nearly all title matters flow.
Title registration
Under the Torrens System, the NLA issues and maintains every Certificate of Title in Jamaica. Without its stamp of approval, no transfer, mortgage, or easement is legally effective. Our team prepares and lodges Transfer Instruments, discharges, and caveat withdrawals, then tracks the file until the updated title is ready for collection.
Search reports
Before any money changes hands, we order an official title search from the NLA. The report lists the current owner, property description, and recorded encumbrances such as mortgages, caveats, or restrictive covenants. Analysing these results early allows us to clear obstacles—like an old mortgage that was paid off but never removed—long before completion day.
Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ)
Tax Administration Jamaica collects the taxes that accompany every property transaction and issues the certificates that prove nothing is owed.
Stamp duty collection
TAJ handles stamp duty on documents such as the Agreement for Sale and the Transfer Instrument. Without a stamped TR1, the NLA will reject your lodgment. Our lawyers calculate the duty, submit payment, and secure the stamped originals so registration proceeds without delay.
Tax clearances
Sellers must also settle transfer tax, and owners must keep annual land tax current. TAJ issues clearance certificates confirming these payments. We obtain every required certificate ahead of lodging documents, ensuring the buyer does not inherit unpaid liabilities.
Local Parish Councils
While the NLA and TAJ manage national requirements, parish councils govern local land use and services.
Planning & zoning approvals
Parish councils issue building permits and enforce zoning rules. During due diligence we check that the property’s existing or intended use complies with local plans. Ignoring a zoning restriction can lead to enforcement notices, fines, or demolition orders, so this step is essential.
Municipal rates assessment
In addition to land tax, parish councils levy municipal rates that fund local services. We verify that all rates are up to date and advise clients of future obligations, preventing inherited arrears from upsetting a post-completion budget.
The regulations and procedures these agencies enforce are a direct result of Jamaican property laws that govern real estate transactions.
By understanding how these government bodies interact—and making sure every form, fee, and clearance is handled in the right order—Conveyance Lawyers ja delivers conveyancing transactions that close smoothly and stand up to legal scrutiny.