How to Find Affordable and Safe Student Housing in South Africa
When starting at University or TVET College it’s important to find the right accommodation for your needs. As students, you’ll need a safe, comfortable and affordable place to live whilst studying.
South Africa offers many different options when it comes to student housing, including University and TVET College accommodation, private student housing and shared accommodation.
You will want to plan out your options carefully. Ensure you’re finding an affordable option as well as taking into consideration where your accommodation will be, whether it’s safe and if it meets your institution or funding body’s requirements.
This article will outline how to find student housing in South Africa, what to check and how to avoid scams.
1. Types of Student Housing
Before looking for a place to live, know what housing options are available to you.
University and TVET College
Many Universities and TVET Colleges offer student housing. This can include providing rooms, communal areas, security and onsite services.
This can be a convenient option as you’ll be close to your lectures, libraries and other facilities. However, there may not be enough space so apply early and ensure you meet the requirements for applying to student housing through your institution.
Private Student Housing
Private student housing will be provided by landlords and housing companies.
Some properties will offer you fully furnished rooms, WiFi, study areas, washing machines and security.
Ensure you know where the property is, how much it will cost you per month and if it is approved for NSFAS funding if you require this.
Shared Housing
Many students will choose to share a house or apartment with other students. This can be a way to save money on living costs. However, make sure you agree on how much rent, electricity, water, cleaning and other costs will be split between everyone.
2. How to Find Student Housing in South Africa
There are various ways to find the right housing for you.
Contact your Institution
The first thing to do is contact your Universities or TVET Colleges Accommodation or Student Affairs department. They will be able to tell you:
What student housing is available
Approved private housing providers
Application process and deadlines
Costs of housing
NSFAS accommodation arrangements
Sometimes they will have a list of approved accommodation providers on their website.
Search in the Area
Ensure you’re finding a property that is a reasonable distance from your campus.
Ensure you can get to your campus safely, using public transport or the student transport provided by your institution.
If you’re finding a cheaper option further away from campus, then you may end up spending more on transport each day.
Compare Costs and Facilities
Don’t just look at the cost of the rent. Ensure you’re getting good value for money by knowing what is included in the rent. Is electricity, water, WiFi, furnishings and security included? Work out the total cost per month.
Visit the Property
If possible visit the property. This will give you an idea of what the property looks like. Check the condition of the room, bathroom, kitchen, doors, windows and electrics.
Ask about security, maintenance, communal areas and how many people live there.
If you’re unable to visit the property, ask for a live video tour. Ensure you’ve double checked the address and property.
3. NSFAS Accommodation
If you’re receiving funding from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), you may be eligible for some accommodation support. However, not all private accommodations will be approved for NSFAS funding.
Before accepting any accommodation, ensure:
The property is accredited or approved for the funding
Your institution has approved the accommodation
You meet the requirements for the accommodation funding
The rent is within the funding amounts
The correct lease has been completed
NSFAS state that students receiving funding should use accredited accommodation. If you live in unaccredited accommodation without the correct permission this may affect your accommodation allowance.
Find out more about NSFAS accommodation:
https://nsfas.org.za/content/studentacom.html
For more updates:
https://www.nsfas.org.za/
4. What Documentation Will Be Required?
Depending on the accommodation provider and institution you may be asked for various documents.
This often includes:
Certified copy of your South African ID or passport
Proof of registration/admission to a University or TVET College
Proof of NSFAS funding
Contact details and emergency contact
Proof of income or funding
Completed application forms for accommodation
Ask the accommodation provider what exactly they require. Only share sensitive documents via the correct channels.
5. Lease Agreement
A lease agreement (rental agreement) outlines your responsibilities as a tenant and landlord.
Before signing make sure you know:
How much you’ll be paying per month
When you need to pay and how
If there is a deposit
What is included in the rent
How long the lease is for
Visitors and communal areas
Conditions for ending your lease
Who is responsible for maintenance.
Make sure you understand what you’re signing. If there’s anything you’re unsure about, ask questions. Keep a copy of your signed lease.
If you’re renting privately, you should know your rights under the Rental Housing Act.
Find out more:
https://www.gov.za/documents/rental-housing-act
6. Avoiding Scams
Unfortunately whilst searching for student housing you may fall victim to scam landlords and false adverts.
To avoid this:
Never pay any money until you’ve confirmed the property and who is offering it.
If it’s significantly cheaper than other properties in the area be cautious.
Don’t send any money to people you don’t know, especially if they’re pressuring you to send money straight away.
Ask for proof in writing.
Confirm the landlord/agent details.
Be cautious with any adverts on social media.
Keep proof of all payments made.
If they claim the property is accredited by NSFAS, confirm with your institution or NSFAS.
7. Help with Rent Issues
If you have issues with your landlord you can contact the relevant Rental Housing Tribunal in your province.
They can help with certain issues regarding your rent.
For example, Western Cape Government have information on your rights as a tenant, deposits and how to report issues.
https://www.westerncape.gov.za/infrastructure/frequently-asked-questions-tenants
Students in other provinces should contact their own Rental Housing Tribunal.
Final Thoughts
Finding safe and affordable student accommodation can take some research and careful planning. Start by contacting your University or TVET College and compare your options. Ensure you’re getting a good deal by working out the total cost.
If you’re receiving NSFAS funding ensure the accommodation you’ve chosen meets the requirements for approval and funding.
Most importantly, ensure you’ve confirmed the property, know what you’re signing and don’t rush into paying any money. By making informed decisions about your accommodation you can focus on your studies and have a safer student experience.
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