The Department of Human Settlements and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) are preparing to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at addressing disputes between student tenants and landlords.
The agreement will establish closer cooperation between the National Department of Human Settlements, NSFAS and Rental Housing Tribunals across South Africa.
The initiative comes as concerns continue to grow over student accommodation disputes, exploitation and rental contract disagreements.
Focus On Protecting Students And Landlords
Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane said the partnership will focus on educating both student tenants and landlords about their rights and responsibilities within the rental housing sector.
“We are concerned about reports of student tenants being exploited by landlords, as well as instances where some students fail to honour their contractual obligations with landlords, despite receiving NSFAS funding,” Simelane said.
The Minister confirmed that government has already engaged with student organisations and other stakeholders, with awareness campaigns expected to be rolled out across all nine provinces.
Rental Housing Tribunals Available Across South Africa
Simelane explained that Rental Housing Tribunals are now operational in every province and offer free dispute resolution services for both tenants and landlords in the public and private rental sectors.
The tribunals are expected to play an important role in helping students and accommodation providers resolve conflicts without expensive legal proceedings.
Government Aims To Improve Housing Access
Simelane said government wants to ensure that tenants and landlords can access fair and legally binding dispute resolution mechanisms without being forced into costly court processes.
She added that the proposed amendments form part of wider efforts to improve order within the housing sector while protecting vulnerable communities.
The Minister also reaffirmed government’s commitment to speeding up housing delivery and improving access to affordable and secure accommodation across South Africa.
Additional reporting by SANews.gov.za.
