Even landlords have it tough during lockdown as they face financial problems.

The Herald recently spoke to two landlords who accommodate college students from other provinces.

Busiwe Nqeketho, a landlord from Homelake said he accommodated 10 students.

“Business is dying and the students are unreliable. They all went home at the beginning of lockdown, left some of their belongings behind, but some are not paying rent. To be fair I asked them to pay half of the rent, but instead of paying they give me stories.

Although some do pay, I will now be one of the people who need food parcels during this lockdown,” she said.

Dakalo Muntswu, another landlord based in Greenhills, who said he told his tenants in good faith to go home and be with their loved ones during the pandemic, is also struggling.

“I am unable to cope financially. Debit orders have bounced and left my bank balance in a negative. What students must understand is that I still have to pay the municipal bill. I also have to eat. There is no income or anywhere we as landlords could claim, because most of us are not registered. I can’t even afford to purchase electricity,” he said.

WHAT DOES THE LAW SAY?

Things have changed since the president announced lockdown back in March. Read the following for clarity:

• Disaster Management Act: Regulations: Alert level 4 during Coronavirus Covid-19 lockdown

• Registered Credit Bureau answers questions regarding landlords, tenants, evictions etc