Answers to your questions
Have a question you would like answered? Email us and we may answer it. The questions here are based on ones from our readers, with identifying information removed.
Please note: GroundUp is just a news agency. We are not lawyers or financial advisors, and we have nothing to do with SASSA, Home Affairs, or any other government bodies. We do our best to make the answers accurate using publicly available information, but we cannot accept any legal liability if there are errors. If you notice any discrepancies, please email [email protected].
Topic: Housing | Show questions and answers for all topics
How can you get a government house if you earn more than R3,500 a month?
If you earn between R3,500 and R22,000, you qualify for "gap" housing, like the Finance Linked Individual Subsidy Programme.
If I settle on municipal land, can I negotiate with the municipality to buy it later?
No, it's illegal - the municipality would consider this as land invasion.
Can disabled people get RDP houses?
Yes, the municipality is supposed to give preference to a disabled person applying for an RDP house.
What are the rights of someone who has occupied a house after it was abandoned 20 years ago?
Under the PIE Act, you cannot be evicted without a court order. You might be able to transfer the house to your name.
Can my coworker sell half her RDP house to me?
Yes, but only if she has owned the property for more than eight years.
What happens with the title deed if there is no will?
The Intestate Succession Act of 1987 applies
What happens if the seller of a house dies before the transfer has taken place?
The transfer process is halted and the estate of the deceased seller must be reported.
Where can I get a PTO certificate for my rural stand?
You need to approach the traditional leader in the area where you live.
Does my son have any claim to my late parents' house?
No, but he will inherit part of your share of the house when you pass away.
If land was bought by multiple individuals at the same time long ago, how do their heirs claim the estate?
It's unclear how the heir of one of the owners would get an individual title deed for his share of the land.