News
Joburg Tenant Loses Court Battle Over R3 Million Property Renovation
How a Rental Renovation Turned into a Courtroom Collapse
In a tale emblematic of Joburg’s competitive property market, a tenant’s ambition to transform his Bryanston rental into a future home backfired dramatically. What began as R394 000 kitchen improvements and over R520 000 in painting and waterproofing spiralled into eviction, unpaid rent arrears nearing R1 million, and a final High Court judgment in favour of the landlord.
From R20K Rent to R28K in Four Years
Originally paying R20 000 a month in 2010 under a lease with a 10% escalation clause, the tenant entered a verbal “buy‑when‑you‑can” agreement – though nothing was put in writing. By 2017, rent rose to R28 000, but payments became erratic. Between December 2017 and December 2021, he only paid twice and accumulated nearly R1 million in arrears.
Renovations, Value Claims – and Eviction
The tenant’s argument: his extensive renovations boosted the home’s value from R2.6 million to an estimated R3.5 million. Feeling entitled, he sought over R900 000 in damages when the property sold in 2022 for R3 million. Yet Acting Judge Kazee found no evidence of the verbal purchase agreement and highlighted Clause 12 in the lease, which clearly voids any landlord liability for tenant‑paid improvements – no matter the cost or consent.
Image 1: Pexels
Final Court Words and Removed Upgrades
The Court noted the tenant dismantled several additions – including a garage geyser and solar geyser – before leaving. The dismissal of his claims meant he was ordered to pay R896 000 in rent arrears and the landlord’s legal costs.
Key Takeaways for Joburg Renters (and Landlords)
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Always get it in writing. Verbal promises – especially about purchasing – don’t stand up in court.
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Read every clause. Lease terms can bar reimbursement for improvements.
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Track your payments. Unpaid rent is a fast route to eviction and legal consequences.
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Know your rights. Tenants should engage an attorney before spending on a rental property.
Also read: R16 Billion Time Bomb: Unused Leave Could Drain South Africa’s Public Coffers
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Source: IOL
Featured Image: Pexels
