The City of Ekurhuleni has called on residents, businesses, government departments and other stakeholders to comment on its Draft Problem Buildings By-law, 2025, which aims to improve the management, safety and rehabilitation of neglected and illegally occupied buildings across the metro.

According to the city, the proposed by-law forms part of ongoing efforts to address urban decay and ensure that buildings are properly maintained for the benefit of communities.

The legislation will apply throughout Ekurhuleni, including state-owned properties, and will be binding on property owners, occupants, businesses and anyone responsible for the management and maintenance of buildings.

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The draft by-law is available for public inspection from February 25 to March 27, 2026.

Residents can access copies at municipal customer care centres, public libraries and on the city’s official website.

The municipality has encouraged residents and stakeholders to review the document and submit written comments or representations before the closing date. Submissions can be made by email, post, telephone or hand delivery to the Development Planning and Real Estate Department offices in Kempton Park, as well as to public libraries and customer care centres across the metro.

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For enquiries or to submit comments, residents may contact Godfrey Rakhivhani at Godfrey.Rakhivhani@ekurhuleni.gov.za or 011 999 4951, or Thapelo Mogatusi at Thapelo.mogatusi@ekurhuleni.gov.za or 011 999 3975.

The city said public participation is an important part of the legislative process and will help shape policies aimed at improving safety, property management and urban development across Ekurhuleni.