HOEDSPRUIT – Ratepayers in Hoedspruit are being urged to check their Maruleng Local Municipality accounts following complaints of alleged billing errors, substantial increases in water charges and the introduction of new sewerage charges.

The Hoedspruit Concerned Rate Payers Association (HCRPA) said it had received numerous complaints from residents following the introduction of a new billing and tariff structure.

“We strongly encourage all Hoedspruit residents to check their accounts carefully,” the HCRPA said.

Possible 108% increase in water bills

According to the association, residents on Hoedspruit’s wildlife estates could face increases of approximately 108% in their overall water bills, depending on consumption.

The HCRPA highlighted an apparent basic water charge of R125 per stand, compared with the previous charge of R11.20.

“Most estates do not have individual municipal water connections to every stand. Instead, the estate receives municipal water through a single bulk connection,” the HCRPA said.

The association is seeking clarity on the legal and tariff authority for the charge and how the municipality distinguishes between bulk and individual water connections.

New sewerage charge

Another concern is the reported introduction of a R135.45 domestic sewerage charge on some town residents’ accounts.

Residents are encouraged to check whether the charge applies to their property, whether it has been correctly calculated and whether it forms part of the approved tariff schedule.

Check for errors

The HCRPA is also urging ratepayers to check their accounts for arithmetic errors. This includes checking:

• Water consumption and meter readings
• Tariffs and basic charges
• Sewerage charges
• VAT calculations
• Opening balances
• The billing period
• The final amount due

“Do not automatically assume that the amount reflected as ‘Total Due’ is correct,” the association said.

Who authorised the changes?

Questions have also been raised about who authorised the changes.

The HCRPA said some ratepayers had reportedly been advised by municipal staff that the tariff and billing changes were imposed by Mopani District Municipality.

It said ratepayers can also request documentation authorising the charges, including the approved 2026/27 water and sanitation tariff schedule.

Municipality yet to respond

The Herald contacted Maruleng Local Municipality spokesperson Justice Shipalana for comment on the concerns raised by the HCRPA. By the time of going to print, no response had been received.

An update will be published once information is received from the municipality.