(1)  Before proceeding on default of appearance by a defendant, the plaintiff is to file an affidavit of service of the writ on the defendant.

(2)  Before proceeding on default of defence by a defendant –

(a) the plaintiff's practitioner personally must certify in writing to the registrar that the defendant has failed to deliver a defence within the time limited; or

(b) if the plaintiff is acting in person, the plaintiff must file an affidavit verifying the facts entitling him or her to enter judgment in default of defence.