Rolag Property Trading (Pty) Ltd signed a written offer on 20 October 2005 to purchase immovable property from Rockbreakers and Parts (Pty) Ltd. When Rockbreakers accepted the offer on 25 October 2005, it added in manuscript a clause making the acceptance subject to the seller obtaining registration of the subdivision of the property. This manuscript insertion was not initialled or countersigned by Rolag. Both parties were aware that subdivision was necessary for transfer. The respondent paid the deposit and furnished guarantees, and subdivision approval was later obtained subject to conditions. Rockbreakers thereafter refused to proceed with transfer, contending that no binding agreement existed because the acceptance was conditional and never accepted in writing. Rolag sought specific performance in the Johannesburg High Court, which was granted. Rockbreakers appealed to the Supreme Court of Appeal.