The rental market is an important component of the residential property market, and when there is an oversupply of stock for sale, this sector often gains momentum.

However, it is vital that tenants and landlords remain mindful of the legalities of residential letting in South Africa, says Carol Reynolds, area principal for Pam Golding Properties in the Durban North and La Lucia areas.

“This is particularly relevant at the moment, when strict lending conditions have forced many would-be-buyers to rent rather than buy. Lease agreements are not to be taken lightly, and professional service and expertise can make the difference between a pleasant experience and a tumultuous one.

“Most important, a lease agreement is a legally binding document, and once signed, the parties are obligated to perform in accordance with the terms of the agreement. The tenant commits for the full term of the lease, and generally rent is due on or before the first day of every month.

“Unfortunately, at present a large number of tenants are falling into arrears with their rental payments. The correct process for landlords to follow in these circumstances is to send letters of demand notifying the tenants that they are in breach of contract, offering tenants seven days within which to contact their landlords and make arrangements to pay.

“If payment has not been forthcoming within 20 days, then the landlord is entitled to blacklist the tenant. The blacklisting can only be removed once the debt has been settled. This has serious implications for an individual’s credit worthiness, and can hamper prospects of finding alternative premises to lease. If for any reason, a tenant wishes to vacate the premises before the end of the lease period, then the tenant is still liable to pay the rent, until a replacement tenant has been found.”

Reynolds says other basic rules to keep in mind include the fact the deposit cannot be offset against the last month’s rental. The deposit is the landlord’s only security and is strictly to be used for making good any damages that may have resulted during the term of the lease. Once a lease has expired, and if the landlord and tenant then decide to enter into a month-to-month agreement, they need to inform the agent of their intentions, and the agent will normally agree to a reduced renewal fee for assisting them with any legalities.

“From a landlord’s perspective, the current legislative process of evicting a problematic tenant is onerous. This is why it is vital to do credit and character checks before the tenant moves in. Landlords should do their homework before enlisting the services of an agent, and they should consider factors such as experience; the reputation or track record of the estate agency and follow-up service; costs payable for services rendered; whether the agency offers credit checks and tenant screening; procedures regarding invoicing, inspections and debt-collection.

Any rental disputes can be raised with the Rental Housing Tribunal on 086 010 6166.