Ward 18 Ald Heather Hart has called on real-estate agents to inform councillors and the City of Ekurhuleni of tenants and property owners who intend to use properties illegally.

Hart stated this appeal comes as the city continues to clamp down on illegal land use.

“The city and many councillors have found that there are some estate agents, not only in Edenvale but across the city region, who focus on the sale rather than the consequences of breaking the law,” said Hart.

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She emphasised that a sale is more than a sale and can impact the surrounding community.

“It’s vital that real estate agents become familiar with the city’s laws and encourage them to learn the city’s building bylaws and town planning schemes.

Hart said all stakeholders want to maintain the integrity and aesthetic of Edenvale, and it is often in the best interests of Property owners and real estate agents to help do so.

She said if real-estate agents suspect that a property owner or tenant is going to use a property illegally, whether it is to provide accommodation, such as a commune or guest house or to establish an unregistered crèche or early childhood development centre, it needs to be reported to the local councillor or to the city as soon as possible.

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Hart said that although there are legal and appropriate channels to construct additional accommodation or register an ECD at a property, the law must be followed, and the COE must be consulted.

“The city is considering extending penalties to those estate agents who help facilitate illegal land use.”

“There are considerations of a fine of R150 000 to those who do.”
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