Residents who recently moved into the new Khutsong South Ext 5 and 6 housing development outside Welverdiend are expressing deep frustration over the poor condition of their low-cost homes. Although the project aims to provide 753 units, those who have received their keys claim the construction is far below standard.

At the house of Selinah Dunjane, who moved in during February, most of the windows are fitted so crookedly that they cannot close, and the paint on the outside walls is already peeling away. Many other beneficiaries received houses without taps, while incomplete roofs have left residents dealing with leaks.

“Some of the aprons around the houses also do not have mesh wire inside, while others have,” says a plumber working in the area, Fanie Manapula. These aprons are an essential part of the government’s actions to keep the houses built on dolomite safe, as they prevent water from seeping into the foundation and causing sinkholes.

Furthermore, while water meters are present, many pipes remain unconnected or are left lying on the surface between homes. Internal leaks and sewerage spills are also being reported, with open manholes creating additional hazards.

According to the residents, they have reported the issues to municipal officials, but their complaints fall on deaf ears. Even some subcontractors working at the project told the Herald that the main contractor is ignoring their warnings about substandard work that falls short of previous municipal requirements.
The project involves the main contractor, Reder Construction Pty Ltd, and consultants Phunga Consulting Engineers Pty Ltd.

CIPC records show Reder Construction is directed by Misaac Davids and based in Bloemfontein, while Phunga Consulting Engineers is led by Dakalo Oswald Raphunga with offices in Secunda and Centurion.

The Herald took the issues to the Merafong City Local Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Manager, Temba Fezani, but received no response by printing time.