Property rules for keeping pets in SA

Over the last two decades, there has been a rise in the number of residential complexes throughout the country. There are several reasons for this, such as the fact that they offer residents a sense of security, community and, opportunities for investment. While these types of arrangements provide efficient housing solutions, they also present a number of challenges.

Some of the top things to consider when living in a complex are the rules and regulations around visitation, noise levels, parking space, and pets. These rules vary, depending on decisions made by body corporate trustees. In this blog, we focus on the standard rules of recommended conduct, which form the basis of most pet policies in South African complexes.

#1: You need permission from the body corporate to keep a pet

As mentioned above, the rules that apply in any complex will depend on the body corporate. These are the people who will define the types of pets that are allowed, considering factors such as species, size, etc. As a resident, you’ll have to tender a request, which can either be granted or rejected through a written response.

#2: You cannot be denied occupation as a result of a service animal

People with disabilities are protected by the constitution, which means their rights must be considered when applying for accommodation in a residential complex. Body corporates have to consider this before consenting or not consenting in this kind of situation.

#3: The body corporate is allowed to impose conditions for keeping pets

Because residents in a complex may live close to one another, there may be a limited number of pets that may be kept in the complex. There may be many reasons for this ranging from where the pet can play to cleaning up after it.

#4: Permission to keep a pet can be revoked if you break the rules

There are consequences for not keeping your end of the bargain. Which can mean losing the privilege to keep a pet on the premises, so instead stick to the rules.

#5: The rights of all residents must be taken into account

It is expected that body corporates are reasonable in how they formulate and enforce these rules. If you feel you’re being mistreated, you can request a meeting to plead your case. The last resort, if a conversation doesn’t work, is to take it up with the Community Schemes Ombud Service.