What is a caveat on land in Uganda?
In brief
A caveat is a statutory notice you lodge on a land title to protect an interest you claim in the land. While it is in force, the registrar will not register a transfer, mortgage or other dealing affecting that interest (RTA s.125). Any person claiming an interest may lodge one (RTA s.123) — but a caveat lodged without reasonable cause can attract compensation (RTA s.126).
A little more detail
Most caveats lapse 60 days after the proprietor applies to remove them and notifies you (RTA s.124), and the same person cannot simply renew one — you may need a court order to extend protection.
What to do next
If you have a genuine interest to protect, see the checklist for lodging a caveat and the caveat template; if a caveat is blocking your sale, get advice on removal.
The law
- Registration of Titles Act, Cap. 240 (2023 Revision) — ss.123, 124, 125, 126.
Quick guide · Land & property.
Actively maintained.
Last reviewed 9 June 2026; next review due 9 June 2027.
This resource is a practitioner orientation and general information, not legal advice, and does not create an advocate–client relationship. It is AI-generated. Ugandan law changes and chapter and section numbers were revised in the 2023 Laws of Uganda. Verify every statute, rule, form, fee and authority against the current primary source — and the specific facts of your matter — before relying on it.