In South Africa, it’s impossible to discuss property without acknowledging Eskom’s impact on our daily lives. With the ongoing challenges around electricity reliability, property owners also have more to consider than ever.
This month’s ‘Safe as Houses’ blog dives into essential tips property owners need to know to avoid unnecessary frustrations and costly issues down the line. Let’s dive in!
3 Tips for Navigating Eskom As Property Owners
1. Keep accurate records
As electricity prices continue to rise, some tenants have begun tampering with meters to reduce costs. This can lead to significant financial consequences for property owners, with fines of up to R12,000.
To avoid this, it’s important to take clear, timestamped photos of the meter during both ingoing and outgoing inspections. Without these records, proving that tenants have not tampered with the meter is nearly impossible.
You can tell if a meter has been tampered with by checking its seal. If the seal is broken, the meter has been damaged, and someone will have to be held accountable.
2. Take note of generators close by
The unpredictability of loadshedding can create significant disruptions for property owners and tenants. To avoid any surprises, check if there are any generators running near your property that could create unwanted noise.
Loud generator sounds can disrupt tenant comfort, potentially affecting their satisfaction and, in the long run, influencing the value of your property.
Being aware of these factors helps you anticipate potential issues and maintain a positive living environment.
3. Ensure proper cover when going off-grid
With Eskom’s ongoing power issues, solar panels offer a practical solution for property owners looking to move off-grid and to a more reliable electricity source. Solar panels provide long-term savings, making them a smart investment for the future.
Before installing solar panels, make sure you have the necessary compliance certificates to maintain property insurance coverage. This helps protect your property’s value and future insurance claims, while also future-proofing the space.
Navigate the Real Estate Process with Ease
While Eskom-related challenges are a reality for South African property owners, staying proactive and informed can help you navigate this process.
At RE/MAX Living, our team of experienced property professionals can help you make an informed decision before you buy. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help.