PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Western Cape Minister of Infrastructure Tertuis Simmers launched the Bitou Municipality's rental housing information office on Monday 23 February.

The office forms part of the province's Rental Housing Tribunal (RHT).

The RHT services are now at our front door, housed at the community services department in Flying Cloud Street, which, according to Simmers, opens "a fair and transparent space where both tenants and landlords can find support and guidance".

The RHT provides free legal mediation and arbitration services to resolve disputes between tenants and landlords. 

The RHT handles issues such as illegal evictions, deposit disputes and non-payment of rent.

Rental rights

Simmers said housing is not only about building new units.

"It is also about ensuring that the rental market functions fairly, responsibly and sustainably. Across the Western Cape, more and more people are choosing to live, work and invest in our province, which places increasing pressure on our housing market, including the rental sector," he said.

"In many communities, including here in Bitou, rental accommodation plays a critical role in providing access to shelter, especially for working families, young professionals, seasonal workers and vulnerable households."

He said the information office in Bitou will raise awareness about rental rights and responsibilities, support landlords and property practitioners to operate within the law, strengthen protection against unfair rental practices and help prevent conflicts that often result in unlawful evictions or financial loss.

"To Bitou Municipality: Thank you for being a model of partnership. This office will serve as an example for other municipalities across the Western Cape that are in the process of establishing similar offices," added Simmers.

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