Answers to your questions

Have a question you would like answered? Email us and we may answer it. The questions here are based on ones from our readers, with identifying information removed.

Topic: Housing  |  Show questions and answers for all topics

How can I transfer an RDP house which is in my father’s name to my mother’s name if he left the house to me and my siblings in his will?

If your parents were married in community of property, which is likely, then the RDP house belongs to them both, jointly.

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Can real estate agents make you give the house back if there is still some money outstanding?

The agent does not have the power to simply take back the house.

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How can I speed up the process of my mother having her house restored after she had been evicted during apartheid?

The best people to approach about speeding up your mother’s claim are those involved in the District Six Working Committee.

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Can I extend my shack without getting in trouble with law enforcement?

You can apply for a shack extension permit from the Informal Settlements Management Department.

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How are council houses inherited by the deceased owner/tenant's children?

If there is no will, the Intestate Succession Act will apply.

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What can I do if my RDP house was approved but now they can't find my ID on the housing database?

This is unusual. You should follow up with the office where you made your application. If they can't help, contact the MEC, the Ombudsman or a legal organisation.

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What is the best way to evict my abusive boyfriend from my shack?

If there is community leadership – like a committee that tracks ownership of shacks – you can contact them for help.

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When selling property, is it right for the conveyancing attorney to demand payment upfront?

Yes, the process of transferring the property to the buyer can only happen once the rates have been paid.

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I applied for government housing. Why does my application status say "NHNR"?

"NHNR" stands for National Housing Needs Register. It probably means that you are registered but that there is no further news yet.

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Our farm was sold without our knowledge or the necessary paperwork. What can we do?

Your property can't legally be sold like this. You need legal help.

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