What this involves
Tell us which side of the dispute you are on below, and roughly where things currently stand.
The Prevention of Illegal Eviction Act requires a court order before anyone can be evicted — "self-help" evictions (changing locks, cutting utilities, removing belongings) are illegal regardless of what the lease says, and can expose a landlord to a counter-claim. We make sure notices, service, and the court application itself meet PIE's procedural requirements so the process is not delayed or thrown out on a technicality.
Courts weigh factors like the length of occupation, whether children, elderly, or disabled people are affected, and whether alternative accommodation is available — these "just and equitable" factors are often where eviction applications succeed or fail, not the underlying lease breach itself.
Tenants can raise deposit disputes, unlawful lock-outs, or unresolved repairs through the Rental Housing Tribunal, which is free to use and faster than litigation for most disputes falling under the Rental Housing Act.
How long does it take?
An eviction application under PIE usually takes 6 weeks to 4 months from launch to a court order, longer if opposed.
What will it cost?
R9 000 to R21 000 excl. VAT
Covers: Preparing and issuing an eviction application up to the first court date.
Based on 6 to 14 hours of Attorney time at our rate of R1 500 per hour, excluding VAT.
This is an estimate, not a quote. The final fee depends on the facts and how complex your matter turns out to be, and your Attorney confirms it in writing before work starts. Court fees, sheriff’s fees, counsel and other disbursements are charged separately.
Ask for a firm quoteThis page is general information, not legal advice for your situation. See our Disclaimer.