Property & Housing
Rental disputes, deposits and landlord problems
Covers: South Africa · Zimbabwe
Most rental disputes come down to three things: what the lease says, what the inspection recorded, and what was paid when. Get those in one place and the dispute usually resolves without a hearing.
What you need
- Signed lease agreement and any addenda
- Incoming and outgoing inspection reports, with photographs
- Proof of deposit payment and rental payments
- Written notice you gave or received, with dates
- Repair requests and the landlord's responses
Step by step
- 1
Check the lease terms
Notice period, deposit handling and repair obligations are usually decided by the lease first.
- 2
Compare the inspections
Deposit deductions must relate to damage beyond fair wear and tear, evidenced at the outgoing inspection.
- 3
Demand in writing
A dated letter setting out the amount, the basis and a reasonable deadline for payment.
- 4
Escalate to the tribunal
In South Africa, unresolved disputes go to the provincial Rental Housing Tribunal — the service is free.
- 5
Keep every reply
Silence is also evidence. A record of ignored demands strengthens your position.
Eviction is a court process
A landlord may not lock you out, remove your possessions or cut services to force you out. Lawful eviction requires a court order. If that is happening, treat it as urgent.
Official sources
ThusoAssist links to official forms and portals — it never recreates an official document.
Common questions
How long does a landlord have to return my deposit?
It depends on your lease and the applicable rental housing rules — confirm on the official tribunal site for your province, then send a dated demand.
Does the tribunal cost money?
Rental Housing Tribunal complaints in South Africa are free to lodge.
Turn this into a case file
A guide tells you the process. A ThusoAssist case works it: adaptive interview, your facts and evidence in one place, what's missing, an action map, documents and follow-up.
Related guides
ThusoAssist is not a law firm, government department or licensed professional. Guidance is general and may need verification. For serious matters, consult a qualified professional.