FOLLOWING Monday’s protest by the City’s plumbing contractors at the Florence Mkhize building in the Durban CBD, the eThekwini Municipality has refuted allegations that they have not paid for their services for the past four months.

According to the categories A, B, and C plumbers, they last received payment in October, which has put some of them in the red financially. On Monday they protested outside the Florence Mkhize Building where they demanded a meeting with management.

“Every week it’s the same old story, empty promises and reassurances that we will be paid,” said one of the contractors who refused to be named out of fear of reprisal.  “They still call us out for jobs but do not pay us.”

Following the allegations the City issued a statement denying the allegations. Municipal spokesperson Mandla Nsele said, “We categorically reject these claims. The City continues to pay all service providers where claims are legitimate and fully substantiated.”

Nsele said in the 2024/2025 financial year, 98% of all creditors were paid by eThekwini within 30 days, in line with legal requirements. “The remaining 2% of cases involved incomplete documentation or compliance queries, which must be resolved before payment can be processed.

Also Read: Unpaid eThekwini plumbers vow to escalate protest

“Delays caused by missing documentation or compliance issues are exceptions, and they are necessary to ensure value for money and adherence to audit requirements. Service providers experiencing such challenges are encouraged to contact the relevant line department responsible for their work and payment. Both parties must work together to provide complete documentation and address any outstanding queries promptly,” he added.

In a meeting between the City and the protesting contractors on Monday at the eThekwini Water and Sanitation head office, they were informed that 152 invoices were affected and will be processed once the matter has been attended to.

“It is important to note that, in terms of audit standards, the Municipality must verify the receipt of goods and services before finalising payment to prevent financial loss. Service providers are responsible for submitting evidence to substantiate their claims.

“To assist any affected service providers, we request that they submit a full statement of account, along with invoices and proof of work completed, so that any outstanding invoices can be reviewed and confirmed,” said Nsele.

He added where documentation is complete and compliance requirements are met, all service providers are paid within 30 days, and urged for patience and understanding while they obtain the necessary evidence before committing expenditure.

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