Buying a condominium in Uganda is an exciting step, especially as vertical housing becomes more common in cities like Kampala, Entebbe, and Wakiso. But after you make the payment, what exactly should you walk away with — legally?
This guide explains the key documents every buyer should receive to protect their investment, prove ownership, and avoid future disputes.
🧾 1. Condominium Title (Certificate of Title)
This is the most important document.
After purchase, your unit should be registered in your name, and you should receive a Certificate of Title specific to your unit. This title is issued by the Ministry of Lands and shows:
- Your full name (as owner)
- The unit number (e.g. Apartment 2B, Block A)
- The land on which the condominium sits
- The size and location of your space
This document is your legal proof of ownership. Without it, you’re vulnerable to disputes or resale complications.
📝 2. Sales Agreement (or Sale and Purchase Agreement)
This is the contract between you and the developer or previous owner.
It outlines:
- Purchase price
- Payment terms
- Description of the unit (size, location, block)
- Timeline for completion and handover (if buying off-plan)
- Rights and obligations of each party
Both you and the seller should sign this, ideally in the presence of a lawyer. It’s also what you use to process the title transfer.
💰 3. Proof of Payment
Always get official receipts or acknowledgment of payment from the seller or developer. This includes:
- Down payment and balance (if paid in stages)
- Stamp duty receipts (from URA)
- Fees for title transfer or registration
- Any other agreed-upon charges (e.g. service connection fees)
This helps confirm that you’ve fulfilled your financial obligations.
🗂️ 4. Stamped Transfer Forms (Form 13)
This is the document that authorizes the transfer of ownership into your name. It must be:
- Signed by both parties
- Stamped by the Uganda Revenue Authority (showing stamp duty was paid)
- Submitted to the land registry for title processing
Without a stamped transfer form, your title can’t be processed.
🏘️ 5. Copy of the Condominium Plan
This is the official layout of the building as approved by the Ministry of Lands. It shows how the land is divided into units, floors, and common areas.
Every legal condo should have a registered condominium plan. You may not get the entire plan, but you should at least get the page showing your unit.
📋 6. Condominium Owners Association (COA) Documents
Once the building is occupied, it’s usually managed by a Condominium Owners Association.
If it’s active, you should receive:
- A copy of the Association Rules or Constitution
- A summary of service charges (monthly or annual fees for shared services)
- A notice of when you’ll be expected to begin paying those fees
This helps you understand your obligations as a unit owner.
🔍 Optional but Useful:
- Occupancy certificate (if construction is newly completed)
- Utility account numbers (water, electricity) if they’re transferred or opened in your name
⚠️ What to Watch Out For
Not all developers in Uganda follow proper process. Be careful if:
- You’re only given a sales agreement with no title
- The developer claims you “don’t need” to transfer ownership
- There’s no mention of a registered condominium plan
- You’re asked to pay in full without documentation
✅ Final Word
Buying a condo is not just about the key and the view — it’s about clear ownership.
Always insist on:
✔️ A registered condominium title in your name
✔️ A stamped, lawyer-reviewed sale agreement
✔️ Proof of all payments
✔️ Verified transfer forms
✔️ Access to the owners’ association or management details
If you’re not sure about any of the paperwork, get help from a lawyer — or use our trusted verification service.