Help with rental disputes

The national lockdown has led to the reduction of household income for many South Africans, leaving many unable to afford their rent.

In these trying times, and with everyone spending more time trapped indoors, it is understandable how disputes can arise between a tenant and his or her landlord.

In times such as these, landlords and tenants can seek council from the Rental Housing Tribunal (RHT).

Made up of members who have been appointed by the provincial minister of housing and have experience with housing management, development and rental housing, the RHT is tasked with implementing the Rental Housing Act and assists in resolving disputes that arise between landlords and tenants.

The RHT deals with all aspects relating to a tenancy, such as verbal or written lease agreement disputes, the rights and duties of each party, deposit refunds, rental defaults, damage to the rental property, utilities, eviction and house rules, to name a few.

The primary function of

“the Rental Housing Tribunal is to mediate and settle disputes that tenants and landlords cannot resolve amicably. The RHT will inform

“landlords and tenants of both their rights and obligations regarding the Rental Housing Act, and will then investigate and mediate the situation at hand to reach a resolution by making recommendations to the relevant parties,” explains regional director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, Adrian Goslett.

Anyone who has a vested interest in a rental property may lodge a complaint with the RHT. According to Goslett, the service that the RHT provides is free to landlords and tenants, and each party may represent themselves in the matter, so there is no need to incur legal costs.

In these trying times, the RHT can be incredibly helpful to resolve disputes without incurring massive legal fees.

Those seeking more free

“advice around issues on renting can visit our blog www.remax.co.za/ask-remax. They can also speak to

“their nearest RE/MAX rental agent who will gladly assist them with any of their questions or concerns,” Goslett says.