Tenant Questions And Answers

How Do I Apply for a Rental Property?

To apply, you’ll need to complete a Tenancy Application Form and provide supporting documents, including:

• A copy of your ID
• Proof of current address
• Proof of income

 

Why Do I Need to Pay a Rental Deposit?

The deposit acts as financial security for the landlord in case of unpaid rent, property damage, or lease violations. The amount is specified in your lease and may increase if your rent increases. All Cape Living Rental’s rental deposits are securely held with a financial authority, earning interest over time. If you meet all lease conditions, your deposit (plus interest) will be refunded at the end of your lease.

 

When Is Rent Due, and When Is It Considered Late?

Rent is due on the 1st of the month and is late by the 2nd. Many tenants believe there’s a seven-day grace period—this is not true. If rent is not received by the 1st, the landlord has the right to issue a breach notice on the 2nd. You will have 20 business days to resolve the breach. If payment is not made within this period, the landlord can cancel the lease and issue a notice to vacate.

 

Who Can Live in My Rental Property?

Your lease agreement specifies who is allowed to live in the rental. If a tenant moves out or a new one wants to move in, written approval from Cape Living Rentals is required. Any new tenant must complete a rental application and be approved before moving in.

 

What Happens If I Can’t Pay My Rent on Time?

You are responsible for paying rent on time. If you’re facing financial difficulties, inform your Property Agent immediately. If rent falls into arrears, Cape Living Rentals will follow legal procedures under the Rental Housing Act of South Africa to recover outstanding amounts.

 

Why Is a Property Condition Report Important?

Before moving in, a Property Condition Inspection Report will be completed to document the home’s condition. You can add notes before signing it. This report protects both you and the landlord, ensuring you are not held responsible for pre-existing damage.

 

When Will Routine Inspections Take Place?

Cape Living Rentals will conduct a mid-term inspection during your lease. You’ll be notified in advance. These inspections allow us to:

• Update the landlord on the property's condition
• Address any maintenance issues
• Give you the opportunity to report concerns

 

You can also log maintenance issues anytime via our RedRabbit platform.

 

Who Is Responsible for Property Maintenance?

• Landlord’s Responsibility: General wear and tear maintenance.
• Tenant’s Responsibility: Any damage caused by negligence, as well as replacing short-term consumables (e.g., lightbulbs).

 

How Do I Report Maintenance Issues?

Report any maintenance concerns through our Red Rabbit platform, where you can submit requests directly to your Property Agent. Attaching a photo helps speed up the process. Once approved by the landlord, we will arrange for a tradesperson to complete the repairs at a convenient time.

 

What Should I Do at the End of My Lease?

Check your lease for notice period requirements before moving out.

• If you want to leave: Notify your Property Agent in writing.
• If the landlord requests you to leave: You will receive written notice. Once you’ve vacated and returned all keys, a final inspection will be conducted.

 

How Can I Ensure the Return of My Deposit?

1. Pay all outstanding rent and bills.
2. Leave the property in its original condition (except for fair wear and tear).
3. Complete the outgoing inspection with your agent before moving out.
4. Perform necessary cleaning and minor repairs, including:

• Clean all marks off the walls.
• Remove nails, fill holes, and repaint walls where necessary.
• Have carpets professionally cleaned and provide a receipt to the landlord or Cape Living Rentals.
• If pets were kept, fumigate the property with a reputable company and provide a receipt as proof.
• Clean shower walls, tiles, and doors, ensuring no mildew remains (including bathroom ceilings).
• Thoroughly clean all toilets and basins.
• Wipe down and clean built-in bedroom cupboards.
• Clean windows, including sills.
• Deep clean the kitchen oven and hob.
• Clean inside all kitchen cupboards and drawers.
• Mop and clean tiled floors, ensuring all marks are removed, including under appliances such as the fridge, washing machine, and dishwasher.
• Clean out the fireplace (if applicable).
• Wipe down curtain rails and hooks, ensuring hooks remain if originally present.
• Ensure blinds (if applicable) are clean and in working order.
• Replace any non-functional lightbulbs, including outdoor lights and spotlights.
• Ensure all interior door keys are in place or labelled and presented to the Rental Agent during the outgoing inspection.
• Remove all household refuse, including boxes and kitchen waste.
• Weed and tidy all garden beds.
• Mow the lawn and remove all garden debris from the property.
• Clear gutters of any debris.
• Ensure the swimming pool is clean and the pool pump is functioning properly (if applicable).
• Confirm all pool equipment is in working order (if applicable).
• Record the water meter reading with the Rental Agent during the outgoing inspection.
• Place the "Pay-as-You-Go" electricity card on top of the meter or hand it to the Rental Agent for safekeeping during the outgoing inspection.
• Ensure all remotes and keys received at the beginning of your lease are returned and that remotes are in working order.
• Check the automatic gate to operate correctly.

 

Completing this checklist will help facilitate the smooth return of your security deposit and ensure compliance with your lease agreement. If repairs are needed, they will be deducted from your deposit. To avoid disputes, take photos and videos during your move-in and move-out inspections.

 

What’s the Difference Between Fair Wear & Tear and Damage?

• Fair Wear & Tear: Expected deterioration over time (e.g., minor scuff marks, faded paint, loose door handles).
• Damage: Issues beyond normal use (e.g., holes in walls, broken fixtures, stained carpets). Tenants are responsible for repairing any damage before moving out.

 

Can I Move Out Before My Lease Ends?

A lease is a legally binding contract. If you move out early, you may still be responsible for paying rent until a new tenant is found. Under the Consumer Protection Act (Section 14), you may cancel your lease with 20 business days’ notice, but a reasonable cancellation penalty may apply.

 

If you’re struggling with payments or need to move early, speak to your Property Agent about possible solutions.

 

Where Can I Learn About My Legal Rights?

You can review South Africa’s rental legislation here: Rental Housing Act.

 

Who Provides the Lease Agreement?

The landlord’s agent (Cape Living Rentals) provides and manages the lease agreement.

 

What Costs Are Involved Before Moving In?

Before moving in, you’ll need to pay:

• Application fee (covers credit checks).
• Lease agreement fee.
• Deposit (1.5 to 2 months' rent).
• Utility deposit (for water/electricity shortfalls).
• First month’s rent.

 

Who Pays Rates, Taxes, and Levies?

The landlord covers these costs.

 

How Many People Can Live in My Rental Property?

Your lease agreement specifies the allowed number of occupants. If this is exceeded or misrepresented, the landlord has the right to cancel the lease and take legal action.

 

Will I Get My Full Deposit Back?

Your deposit cannot be used to cover rent or utilities. It will be refunded within 7 days if there are no damages. If repairs are needed, deductions will be made, and the remaining balance (if any) will be refunded within 14 days after repairs are completed.

 

Can I Make Changes to the Property?

You cannot make structural modifications or install permanent fixtures without written permission from the landlord.

• If approved, tenants are not entitled to compensation when the lease ends.
• In some cases, necessary maintenance or improvements may be reimbursed—speak with your agent before making changes.

 

What If I Have Issues with My Landlord?

If you’re unable to resolve a dispute with your landlord, you can seek assistance from the Rental Housing Tribunal, which provides mediation and legal support.

 

What Happens to a Tenant When a Landlord Sells the Property?

If your landlord decides to sell the property, your lease agreement remains legally binding. Since the lease was established before the sale, it continues to be valid under the new ownership. The buyer of the property automatically assumes the role of your landlord, meaning you are not required to vacate until your existing lease agreement expires.

 

Need help or have more questions? Contact your Cape Living Rentals Property Agent for assistance—we’re here to ensure a smooth and stress-free rental experience!