Wolmer residents cautioned against selling metro-owned houses
The metro is working towards transferring properties in Wolmer and Ou Wolmer to existing tenants through the Enhanced Expanded Discount Benefit Scheme (EEDBS).
At a recent inspection of properties owned by the metro in Wolmer in the north of Pretoria, Ward 2 councillor Quentin Meyer emphasised the importance of maintenance and adherence to municipal regulations.
Over 40 houses were inspected as part of an ongoing three-month initiative, following concerning reports about residents selling these homes unlawfully.
According to metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo, the Department of Human Settlement oversees the rental stock of low-income households.
Mashigo said prospective tenants must enter into a lease agreement with the metro, which outlines the conditions of occupancy, including the requirement to open both rental and services accounts.
Tenants are expected to pay rent monthly in accordance with the terms specified in the lease agreement.
“The metro is working towards transferring properties in Wolmer and Ou Wolmer to existing tenants through the Enhanced Expanded Discount Benefit Scheme (EEDBS).
“This initiative encourages home ownership among residents of publicly owned rental housing by providing subsidies to eligible tenants, facilitating their transition from renters to homeowners,” said Mashigo.
He urged residents to report any suspected illegal sale of metro-owned property.
He said the metro provides a dedicated hotline for reporting fraud and corruption on 080 874 9263 or 012 358 9999.
“Concerns can also be directed to the Rental Directorate at the Human Settlements Department, located on the first floor of Tshwane House.
“These are vital for maintaining the integrity of housing programmes and ensuring that properties are not exploited through unauthorised transactions,” he said.
The metro has established clear repercussions for tenants who breach the terms of their lease agreements.
Violations may lead to the cancellation of the lease and subsequent eviction.
Mashigo said in addition to the lease agreement, house rules govern the day-to-day management of the units, ensuring standards of behaviour among tenants.
He said tenants play a crucial role in maintaining their homes.
“Responsibilities are clearly outlined in Section 10 of the lease agreement and further detailed in Annexure C, which specifies obligations related to sewage, electricity, stoves, and general maintenance.
For those who may be misled into believing they can sell or rent their homes illegally, the Rental Housing Management Section provides regular occupancy assessments.
“These assessments inform tenants about their rights and obligations, helping them to prevent misunderstandings regarding the status of their housing,” explained Mashigo.
He said illegal occupants may be subject to eviction procedures to ensure compliance with municipal regulations.
“The metro offers various resources for low-income tenants, particularly those residing in the Wolmer and Ou Wolmer units.”
The Human Settlements Department addresses qualification criteria for those housing programmes such as low-costing housing, social housing, and community residential units.
Community members are encouraged to visit the department for assistance and to participate in Integrated Development Plan (IDP) consultations, where their concerns can be raised directly.
To curb illegal sales and rental, the department conducts regular occupancy audits, according to Mashigo.
“These inspections help identify unauthorised tenants and ensure adherence to lease conditions and continuous monitoring is essential for preserving the integrity of the housing programme and protecting the interests of lawful tenants.
“The metro has a strategic plan for managing city-owned housing, which includes ongoing inspections and property upgrades.”
The approved council resolution aims to transfer qualifying units to tenants under the EEDBS, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability within the community.
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