Pretoria:The Rental Housing Tribunal offers a no-cost solution for resolving disputes between tenants and landlords. It is a provincially appointed, independent body established under the Rental Housing Act, operating across all nine provinces to provide effective and efficient dispute resolution services for residential rental properties.

According to South African Government News Agency, the Tribunal has several powers, including determining jurisdiction, summoning parties to hearings or mediations, and conducting these sessions either in person or virtually. It can issue mandatory orders and its rulings hold the same authority as a Magistrates' Court judgment. The Tribunal can also impose fines, make fair rental determinations, and issue orders to prevent illegal actions.

Complaints can be lodged by tenants, landlords, groups, or interest groups using a prescribed form, which can be submitted in person, electronically, or through other approved methods. Once a complaint is lodged, the Tribunal investigates its jurisdiction and fairness. If mediation fails to resolve the dispute, the case proceeds to arbitration, with the Tribunal's ruling being binding unless an interim order is issued. Non-compliance can lead to enforcement through the Magistrates' Court, and dissatisfied parties may seek a High Court review.

Unfair practices addressed by the Tribunal include illegal lockouts, service disconnections, failure to refund deposits, illegal evictions, and issues related to rent and property maintenance. The Rental Housing Act, applicable to residential dwellings, ensures tenants' rights to privacy and landlords' rights to rent payment, among others. The Act also outlines the responsibilities of both parties, emphasizing cleanliness, maintenance, and legal processes for property repossession.

Overall, the Tribunal facilitates accessible resolution for rental disputes, helping parties understand their rights and obligations under the Act.