Interactive tool

Letter of Demand Readiness Assessment

Find out whether you are ready to send a letter of demand — and what you need to have in place before you do.

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For general guidance only. This tool provides general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Whether to send a letter of demand depends on your specific circumstances. Always obtain professional advice before taking legal steps.

Checklist progress0 of 8 items confirmed

I know the full legal name and address of the person or entity I am claiming against.Required

A letter of demand must be addressed to the correct legal entity. For companies, use the registered name and registered address from CIPC.

I have a clear legal basis for my claim (contract, statute, or common law).Required

You must be able to identify the specific obligation that has been breached — for example, a contract clause, an invoice, or a statutory duty.

I can quantify the amount I am claiming (or describe the specific performance I am demanding).Required

The demand must specify exactly what you are claiming — a specific rand amount, delivery of goods, or performance of a service.

I have documentary evidence supporting my claim (contract, invoices, correspondence, etc.).Required

While not required to attach to the LOD, you must have evidence available in case the matter proceeds to court.

I have already made informal attempts to resolve the matter (reminders, calls, emails).

Not legally required, but courts look favourably on parties who attempted to resolve matters informally before resorting to formal legal steps.

My claim has not yet prescribed (the prescription period has not expired).Required

Most contractual claims prescribe after three years. A letter of demand does NOT interrupt prescription — only service of process or acknowledgement of liability does.

I am prepared to follow through with legal action if the demand is ignored.

An LOD is most effective when the recipient believes you will act on it. If you are not prepared to proceed, consider whether an LOD is the right step.

I understand that a letter of demand does NOT interrupt prescription.Required

This is a critical point. If your claim is approaching the prescription date, you must serve legal process — not just send an LOD — to interrupt prescription.