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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.

If the Municipality miscalculates the amount owing on property rates, is the previous owner liable for payment?

There is some uncertainty surrounding this, but it is possible that you will have to pay.

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My late grandfather had children with two women who he didn't marry. Do they have claim to his house?

The mothers don't but the children do have claim to the house.

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Are caregivers employees or independent contractors?

They are employees if you control when and how they work.

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Can I apply for a child grant if my partner isn't South African?

You can apply for the child support grant if your partner is a refugee or permanent resident.

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Can my landlord change the price I agreed to buy the house for?

If it was a verbal agreement, there is nothing stopping him from changing the price.

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I want to stop using heroin now that I'm pregnant. What detoxification programmes are available in Cape Town?

The DSD has a community-based substance abuse programme. Ante-natal clinics often also have methadone withdrawal programmes.

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Should an employer pay their worker during the period before the disability benefit is paid out?

The employer is not obliged to retain an employee who is permanently incapacitated if her working circumstances cannot be adapted.

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Does the disability grant cover mental health issues?

Sometimes, but ultimately it is up to SASSA's discretion

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Can a wife inherit an RDP house if she was not listed as a beneficiary?

It depends whether or not the deceased left a will

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Can an abandoned child get a birth certificate?

Yes, but you may need help to get Home Affairs to comply.

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