eMbalenhle SAPS warn of RDP housing scam

The eMbalenhle SAPS warn of a scam involving the illegal sale of a government-subsidised RDP house in Ext 27.

According to spokesperson Sergeant Busi Mthethwa, a woman has allegedly been selling a single RDP house to several people, while charging varying amounts of R50 000 to R200 000, using the phone number 076 932 4757 to do the transactions.

RDP houses are government-subsidised properties and cannot be sold under any circumstances, so the public should not engage in such transactions, as doing so exposes them to financial loss and potential criminal charges.

“To date, about five cases related to this scam were opened at the eMbalenhle SAPS, and investigations are ongoing,” said Mthethwa.

The SAPS urge victims to come forward.

“Victims should bring all relevant supporting documents, including proof of payment, communication records, and any agreements entered into,” said Mthethwa.

Mthethwa urged the community to be vigilant and verify housing-related matters through legitimate government channels before making financial commitments.

The woman was arrested on January 8 and will soon appear in court.

This is not the first case of RDP house fraud in eMbalenhle. The Ridge Times has previously reported on many such cases, some involving former and current councillors, and several are still under investigation.

Mthethwa said police urge those who were approached, made payments, or fell victim to report the matter at the eMbalenhle SAPS or call these detectives: Warrant Officer Elias Mahlangu on 071 968 0250 or Constable Dineo Mthethwa on 071 580 4064.

According to the law, an RDP house beneficiary can sell their home only after living in it for at least eight years from the date of allocation.

They must first offer it to the provincial department of Human Settlements before selling to a private buyer. The sale requires proper legal procedures through a conveyancer and the title deed.

Selling before eight years or without following procedures is illegal, so you could forfeit the property and money.

Key conditions for selling: You must have occupied the house for at least eight years.

Title deed: You must possess the registered title deed for the property.

First option to the State: The Department of Human Settlements (or local municipality) has the first right of refusal to buy back the house.

Legal process: The sale must be handled by a qualified lawyer (conveyancer) to ensure correct transfer through the Deeds Office.

Why the eight-year rule? RDP houses are intended as long-term, secure housing, not for quick profit. The title deed has a pre-emptive clause (an endorsement) that restricts transfer within the first eight years.

What if you sell early? It is illegal, and you can forfeit the property. The provincial housing department can take ownership, and you won’t receive any money.

What to do:

Before selling: Contact your provincial department of Human Settlements to understand the process and requirements.

For the sale: Engage a conveyancer to ensure all legal steps are followed for a valid transfer after the eight-year period.