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
Can I get my parent's RDP house if they passed away before getting the key?
If the house had been awarded to your parent before they passed away, you should be able to get the house (unless they wrote a will saying otherwise).
How can someone buy an abandoned house if the previous owners can't prove ownership?
They could go to the Deeds Office to see if there is a title deed, otherwise legal assistance may be required.
My cousin that I live with at our grandmother's house has the title deed of the house. How can I challenge this?
You could go to the Master of the High Court’s office with all your details, and ask if the Master has granted someone the letter of authority and who it is.
My sister, who is my landlord, allowed our water bill to rack up to a huge amount. Can she legally evict us?
Your sister cannot evict you without a court order. You will need to consult a legal organisation for advice.
How do I find out which deceased parent our RDP home belonged to?
You need to go to the Deeds Office and ask them whose name the title deed is in.
How can I evict an illegal occupant from my late father's house?
First find out if the house is still in your late father's name. You will need to get a court order to evict the illegal occupant.
How can I ensure that I don't get scammed when looking for a place to rent?
Always view the property, verify ownership and never pay before signing a lease.
I took out a bond of R140,000 in 2000. Now in 2025, my balance is still more than R100,000. What can I do about this?
Speak to one of the bank’s financial advisors about your bond repayments.
How can I evict tenants in my late mother's RDP house who refuse to leave?
Since you have a letter of authority, you can get a court order from the magistrate to start the eviction process.
My late father registered our family home in my stepmother's name. What rights to the house do me and my siblings have?
If the title deed is in your stepmother's name, the house belongs to her.