EAST LONDON- The Eastern Cape Rental Housing Tribunal(ECRHT) hosted a consultative discussion on rental-related issues, focusing on the rights and responsibilities of tenants and landlords. The event took place on 28 October 2025, at Cambridge Hall in East London.
The event was part of the Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlement’s initiatives, the discussion aimed to address rental-related issues affecting rental agents, landlords, tenants and the broader community in the Eastern Cape.
The ECRHT member Zukiswa Faku explained that the consultative discussions aim is to raise awareness to all the stakeholders, to share the laws as the rental place is highly regulated and to provide a platform for these stakeholders to engage on matters pertaining to rental housing.
Furthermore chairperson of the ECRHT Tabisa Poswa, identified specific issues pertaining to the nature of disputes in the Buffalo City Metro during her presentation. These issues encompass deposit refunds, maintenance and damages, which appear to be key areas of contention in rental disputes within this region. “To address this, we’re creating awareness and education initiatives to help stakeholders better understand their rights and responsibilities, with the goal of reducing disputes. The trends analysis will guide our approach to develop targeted solutions,” said Poswa.
A tenant representative Joseph Thebahadi spoke out about the lack of representation of tenants and landlords at a stakeholder gathering, with estate agents and property managers dominating the event. “There is an assumption that tenants are defaulters”, he said emphasising the need for equal representation and voice for all stakeholders, including tenants in the rental space.
In addition one of the agency representative inquired if whether the tribunal prioritizes strict adherence to the law or considers practical perspectives when there are disputes, such as a late inspection (e.g., not done within 3 days).Poswa admitted that they have recognised that simply having an agency in place isn’t enough, to address this they are planning to use various communication platforms, including social media and local radios, to reach a wider audience, including rural areas.
She added that the goal is to educate landlords and tenants about their rights and responsibilities in the rental space, and to promote better understanding and compliance.
Photographs: Siyolise Silayi
