PROPERTY MANAGEMENT screening on behalf of owners , including background and credit checks , Shevelew noted that , in his experience , rental agents do not always know the law . “ Many sets of legislation apply to the rental arena . Rental agents must be sure that what they are communicating to tenants is correct and legal . For example , there have been cases where they have assured tenants that late payments are acceptable and set a dangerous precedent .”
A case in point is one in which I was asked for advice when the trustees and body corporate of a complex in Johannesburg became increasingly concerned about a tenant ’ s suspicious activities . He was a renowned crime and kidnapping kingpin who was eventually arrested . There are also cases where non-paying tenants have been dubbed ‘ residential mafia ’ and it is very difficult to evict them . you can ensure that your rental property does not become a thorn in your side and in that of the body corporate .”
“ If a landlord fails to follow proper eviction procedures , as outlined below , the eviction can be deemed unlawful and challenged by the tenant in court , even if the reasons for the eviction are valid ,” Smee stresses .
Landlords must keep a cool head . To secure a successful eviction order , landlords must ensure that they have sufficient documentation and evidence that complies with the legal requirements . Given the complexity of the process ,
One eviction case in a sectional title complex in Fourways has been going on for four years now . During this time , the owner ’ s income and property value has been impacted as the non-paying tenant is also not taking care of the unit . By knowing your tenant , especially in the context of sectional title living ,
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