Tenants unite for change
KNYSNA - On 25 January, a meeting was held at Lagoon View Flats in Hornlee, bringing together concerned tenants to discuss the numerous issues plaguing their living conditions.
The meeting was organised by Marlo Leen, who is a tenant of Lagoon View, and a member of its resident’s committee.
The meeting aimed to address the high rental costs, allegedly exorbitant electricity charges, lack of maintenance, unlawful evictions, and the non-implementation of the initial agreement between the renting agency, Own Haven, and Knysna Municipality.
The meeting was prompted by the growing dissatisfaction among the tenants with Own Haven’s unwillingness to address their concerns. Of particular concern was the sale of the flats without informing the tenants or offering them an opportunity to purchase the units they were renting.
The issues at Own Haven were identified through discussions among the tenants themselves.
Recognising the need for collective action, a committee was formed to engage with Own Haven and advocate for the tenants’ rights and concerns.
The community response at the meeting was one of dissatisfaction with Own Haven’s approach and the lack of response from Knysna Municipality. The tenants feel that their concerns have not been adequately addressed, leading to a sense of frustration and disillusionment.
To make progress and address the challenges faced by Own Haven and the community, several points were discussed during the meeting:
The tenants agreed to establish a formal engagement with Own Haven. Despite the initial reluctance from Own Haven representatives, the tenants are determined to pursue communication and seek resolutions to their grievances.
As a last resort, the possibility of initiating a rent boycott was raised.
This step would involve tenants collectively refusing to pay rent until their concerns are adequately addressed, putting pressure on Own Haven to take action.
KPH has reached out to Own Haven and Knysna Municipality for comment but no comment was received at the time of going to print.