By Diounie Strydom – Senior Residential Portfolio Manager: Property Administration and Facilities Management
In today’s day and age, the relationship between tenants and landlords has become increasingly challenging, often leading to disputes. The majority of these issues range from non-payment of rent to maintenance in units and enforcing rules and regulations, ensuring the rules are followed. So how do we resolve these pressing disputes effectively to achieve a mutually beneficial outcome to both parties? Whilst this can be tricky there is always a way to resolve a matter amicably.
The Rental Housing Act, the PPRA and the Consumer Protection Act provide clear guidelines on what is required and expected of both the tenant, the managing agent, and the landlord. A fully outlined and detailed lease agreement is essential and can prevent disputes as it stipulates the responsibilities of both parties on the major issues that cause the majority of disputes.
Proactive measures and clear communication are key. From sitting down with potential tenants to explain the lease agreement’s terms and conditions before signing, to ongoing professional engagement with tenants and landlords, effective management ensures that all requirements stipulated in the Rental Housing Act and Consumer Protection Act are met. This includes conducting joint occupation inspections, regular routine inspections, and joint vacate inspections.
Building and maintaining a good rapport between tenants and managing agents fosters trust throughout the tenant’s occupancy journey. In turn, this reduces the likelihood of disputes.
Unfortunately, not all disputes are easily resolved. This is where the Rental Housing Tribunal comes in. The Tribunal addresses a wide range of issues, including non-payment of rent, property damage, and deposit refunds. They offer a free service of mediation and arbitration to any tenant or landlord that requires their assistance in resolving a dispute. Any ruling made by the Rental Housing Tribunal becomes legally binding and enforceable as a court order.
While disputes between tenants and landlords are inevitable, having the right managing agent to assist you every step of the way ensures resolutions that are as fair and mutually beneficial as possible.
