What are the consequences of building without approved plans?
Additions and building without municipal approval could land you in hot water.
Resident writes by email:
I have come across numerous residents who have built or renovated houses (Brakpan and surrounding areas) either without approved or no building plans.
These residents are not subjected to valuation increases as the local council is not aware of the renovations.
What is the process to follow when a resident wants to renovate a house or build outbuildings (especially mini hostels for rental) as well as the consequences of not doing as per the legislation?
Editor’s note: City of Ekurhuleni spokesperson Zweli Dlamini responded as follows:
“All construction work should be in compliance with the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act No 103 of 1977 (as amended),” he said.
“With specific reference to the abovementioned, it would be a pre-requisite that building plans be submitted to the local authority for consideration.
“Approval thereof must be obtained prior to the commencement of any building work on the subject property.
“In terms of Section 4 of the abovementioned act, legal action may be instituted against any person erecting any building in contravention of the provisions of the said act.
“Judgement received from the High Court could include the demolition of the illegally built structure at the cost of the registered owner of the subject property.”
He added residents can report any building control-related issues at the various building control offices situated at the customer care centres or it can be reported on the city’s website at www.ekurhuleni.gov.za
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